Although Édouard Manet painted scenes of everyday life, a signature element of Impressionism, his paintings were not entirely consistent with the group’s style. Most Impressionists avoided using black paint, but Manet used black liberally. Neither did Manet participate in the Impressionist exhibitions, instead submitting his work to the Salon—a more established event. Nevertheless, Manet’s paintings were often rejected and criticized.

Manet’s work sometimes stirred controversy, most especially when he depicted women who, unabashed by their nakedness, look directly out at the viewer. When his now iconic painting, Luncheon on the Grass, was rejected by the Paris Salon, he agreed to exhibit at the Salon des Refusés. Though he did not consider himself a member of the Impressionist group, he maintained friendships with many of its artists and inspired them to take up new painting techniques.

There is only one true thing: instantly paint what you see. When you’ve got it, you’ve got it. When you haven’t, you begin again.