tonalism means an American artistic style of the nineteenth century, characterised by landscapes with a misty atmosphere and dark, neutral hues. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 89 out of 100.
Why “tonalism” is a great word
TONALISM — [Noun] An American artistic style of the late 19th century, characterized by landscapes rendered in dark, neutral hues and a misty atmosphere, emphasizing mood and tonal harmony. From tonal (relating to tone or color tone) + the suffix -ism (denoting a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy). Unlike Impressionism, which fractures light into vivid, transient dabs, or Luminism, which presents a world of serene, crystalline clarity, Tonalism seeks the visual equivalent of a sustained, minor chord. It is the dusk that dissolves the horizon, the silhouette of a lone tree blurred into a charcoal wash, and a lone boat merging with the pewter surface of a pond—a quiet argument for the beauty of what lingers at the edge of perception.
Etymology
From tonal + -ism.
noun
- An American artistic style of the nineteenth century, characterised by landscapes with a misty atmosphere and dark, neutral hues.