Mary Cassatt: The American Impressionist
Mary Cassatt was born into a world where women were expected to follow strict rules. Born in 1844 in Pennsylvania, she grew up in a wealthy family that valued education and travel. During a trip to Europe as a child, Mary was exposed to the works of great European masters. This experience ignited a passion for art that would define the rest of her life. However, becoming a professional artist was not a simple path for a woman in the 19th century.
When Mary told her father she wanted to study art, he was not pleased. At the time, art was considered a hobby for ladies, not a career. Despite his objections, Mary enrolled in the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts at the age of 15. She soon became frustrated with the slow pace and the fact that female students were not given the same opportunities as men. Determined to learn more, she moved to Paris, which was the heart of the art world at the time.
- Impressionists:
- A group of 19th-century artists who painted with bright colors and visible brushstrokes to capture a feeling or moment.
- Salon:
- The official and very traditional art exhibition in Paris during the 1800s.
- Masters:
- Highly skilled and famous artists who have produced great works over many years.
- Exhibition:
- A public display of works of art or items of interest, held in a museum or gallery.
- Prestigious:
- Having high status and being very respected by others.
- barriers:
- Obstacles, limits, or rules that hold people back or prevent them from making progress.
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About this biography passage for Upper Elementary
“Mary Cassatt: The American Impressionist” is a biography reading passage about Mary Cassatt, written for Upper Elementary. It takes about 3 minutes to read (508 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.