Hello Blog World,
Before we begin, can you tell me what comes to mind when you hear the name "Claude Monet”? Some common responses include impressionism, gardens, and a legacy.
Claude Monet, born on November 14, 1840, was among the first impressionist artists. Impressionism, a painting style that began in the 1860s, focuses on capturing the immediate visual impression rather than creating highly detailed artworks. Instead of spending years on a single painting, impressionists spend around 20 minutes to depict the shifting light and colors. Monet and his friends faced criticism, as some called their paintings "unfinished" or "an impression." However, the artists gladly embraced the name "impressionist" to define their group.
During the majority of his career, Monet faced challenges in finding a stable home and experienced financial difficulties while trying to sell his paintings. His hard work finally paid off and with some luck when he purchased a beautiful house in the countryside of Giverny, France. He planted a cottage garden that he would paint at different times of the day. On May 18, 2023, I visited Monet’s house and lovely garden in Giverny. As I walked into the garden I noticed the beautiful vibrant emerald green vines growing on his house, the delicate pink flowers wrapped around the viridian green arch walkway that lead to the front of his house.
Some of Monet's work is underrated, such as "The Magpie," a beautiful snowy painting he created between the winter of 1868 - 1869 near the commune of Étretat in Normandy. I think it's a beautiful painting, it must have been hard to make because he used variations of white to create a serene snowy scene with a magpie perched on a gate. To be honest, I have mixed feelings about the Water Lillies paintings. While I do appreciate the talent of the artist and the effort that must have gone into creating those pieces, I wasn't particularly blown away when I saw them myself at the Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris. I don't want to come off as an art critic, but I just felt like something was missing. Despite my personal opinion, I recognize that many people adore these paintings and find them to be incredibly beautiful and inspiring. These paintings were created by Monet during a time when his eyesight was failing him and during World War 1. It's possible that he donated them to France simply because he didn't want to keep them, or maybe he struggled to see what he was creating.
When I think about my experience, I kind of feel like the Art Critic who came up with the term "impressionist." As much as I love impressionism this painting just doesn’t appeal to me. Monet's journey as an artist, his struggles, and his ability to master light and color will always be fascinating to art fans, no matter how they see it. At the end of the day, art is a deeply personal experience, and its impact on each person can be as unique as the brushstrokes of a master.
In the Autumn of 1890, Monet finally purchased his house in Giverny. He planted a garden that bloomed year-round and was low maintenance. I had to go and see it for myself! So we visited his ever-growing and changing garden in the Spring. But truthfully, any time of year is fantastic to visit! I loved seeing his Japanese-style garden lush with bright green bamboo, wisteria trees in full bloom, and a lovely and mysterious pond that was enchanting.
From the vines that hang on arches and bridges to the pink and purple flowers surrounding the paths, this magnificent garden once provided a source of inspiration for Monet's beautiful paintings. He experimented with light and color, capturing the changing seasons and the effects of time on nature. Now Monet, the renowned impressionist artist, is known for his captivating cottage-style garden. Natural aesthetics replace symmetry in this beautiful garden. It is a wild yet beautiful garden that is bursting with blooms year-round. There's no doubt Monet loved painting his garden, its' allure is truly captivating!
Monet's passing on December 5, 1926, marked the end of an era, leaving behind an enduring legacy of impressionistic art and securing his place as the most renowned Impressionist artist. Having gained some insights into Monet's style, why not attempt to perceive the world as he did? Select one of his paintings featuring a blurry landscape and observe the potential dots or brush strokes that bring it to life. Then, embark on your own painting endeavor, embracing the Impressionist approach. Trust the creative process and enjoy the journey! Now, I'm off to paint my own impressionist masterpiece. Farewell, Blog World!
This is a wonderful thing to see, the beautiful grounds and sights Monet saw and was inspired by, where Im sure many saw and walked past him thinking ,whatever as to what is he, and what is he trying to do ? We'll he's an artist, and by definition ,"different" , and by definition, somewhat of an outcast.
As the world bustles by making a living, Monet attempts to show them something they don't have time to see. And this takes time dedication and sacrifice. The magpie is beautiful!! the values are excellent and I can feel the painting. The water lilies, like them or not ,show the dimensions of space, water and reflection as an opaque blotch make…