Final answer:
The reception of a painting when it is first shown can vary depending on the time period and the audience at that time. The Armory Show in 1913 and Manet's Olympia in 1865 had mixed receptions but are now regarded as significant artworks. The Impressionists faced rejection by the Salon but eventually gained recognition for their innovative art.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reception of a painting when it is first shown can vary depending on the time period and the audience at that time. For example, the reception of the painting exhibited at the Armory Show in 1913 was mixed. Some viewers were shocked and critical of the avant-garde European art, while others appreciated the new ideas and artistic expressions. Similarly, when Manet's painting Olympia was first shown at the French Salon in 1865, it caused controversy and ridicule, but today it is regarded as a masterpiece of Western art.
In general, the initial reception of a painting is influenced by the society's tastes, values, and standards of the era. As attitudes shift over time, the public may start to appreciate older paintings in new ways. This can be seen in the case of Sargent's Madame X, which was initially met with severe disparagement but is now treasured as a beloved masterpiece.
The Impressionists also faced a challenging reception in France during the 19th century. The Salon, the official exhibition, rejected their works based on traditional styles of art. As a response, the Impressionists formed their own exhibitions to showcase their new and innovative art. Over time, their work gained recognition and appreciation, both in France and internationally.