Postimpressionism developed in the late 19th century as artists reacted against Impressionism by focusing more on structure, expression, and personal styles rather than just capturing light. Key characteristics included a return to the importance of drawing, capturing expression as well as light, and using color and form to define space. Major postimpressionist artists included Paul Cezanne, whose works emphasized geometry and volume; Vincent van Gogh, whose expressive and emotionally charged works with thick brushstrokes influenced expressionism; and Paul Gauguin, who simplified compositions and used strong colors influenced by Symbolism and the exoticism of Tahiti.

1. Postimpressionism Revision