Auguste Renoir
Pierre Auguste Renoir was a leader in the Impressionist movement of the 19th century. Early in his career, Renoir adhered to the Impressionist standard, but by the mid 1880’s he became focused with the more disciplined formal techniques of painting. Renoir’s popularity was highly influenced by his love of all things beautiful. His subjects included pretty children, flowers, gorgeous landscapes, and above all lovely women. This is exemplified by his quote, `Why shouldn't art be pretty? There are enough unpleasant things in the world.' Renoir’s ‘Girl Reading' depicts a young girl seated among a vase of overflowing lilac colored flowers. The lilac flowers create a soft glow that shines on her face, which is entranced with a small book. The brunette tones of the girl's hair complement her large mahogany colored hat, which is further accented with white flowers and blue trim.
