He is often identified with the "Impressionists," and was influenced by them. However, because of the Paris art world's generally hostile regard for "Impressionism," he chose not to exhibit with them. He preferred to show his work in the more conservative exhibitions sponsored by the French government.
Manet learned to paint in the traditional style, but his work became more spontaneous after his exposure to Claude Monet and the other "Impressionists." He used expressive outline, severe lighting contrasts, bold color and rich texture to portray the world around him.
Manet scandalized the people of Paris with a number of works containing nudes painted in bold poses with direct, outward gazes. While it was popular during his time to paint scenes from the Bible and ancient history, Manet painted scenes from 19th Century history, including one work featuring the execution of Emperor Maximillian of Mexico in 1867.
Manet was well educated, but didn't excel within the academic environment. Even though not exelling in the academic environment he showed prosperity to drawing. After serving in the marines in 1850, Manet entered the studio of Thomas Couture and studied there until 1856.Manet thought that ones art reflects ideals and ideas of present, not past. Although Manet has a particular style of art he was very intrigued with the "Father of Impressionism", Claude Monet and another painter named Auguste Renoir. He painted so well that the impressionists wanted him to participate in the exhibition at Nadar's Studio, but Manet refused to participate.
Manet painted masterpieces such as "Bar at the Folies-Bergeres" in 1882.He also painted Olympia which caused a lot of controversy. Manet died in Paris, France on April 30, 1883.
