Claude Monet: The Studio of Nature
In a review of an exhibition by Claude Monet in La Vie Moderne on June 12, 1880, journalist Emile Taboureaux emphasized the artist’s statement, “I have never had a studio, and I don’t understand why one should shut oneself in a room…nature is my studio.” This quote perfectly encapsulates Monet’s artistic philosophy and his choice to paint outdoors, ‘en plein air’, a decision he made along with fellow artists such as Renoir and Bazille. The exhibition Monet. Masterpieces from the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris, currently on display at the Centro Culturale Altinate-San Gaetano in Padua until July 14, traces Monet’s journey through painting and nature, featuring around sixty of his works.
The exhibition begins with an exploration of the artist’s intimate connection to his family, showcasing surprising pieces such as a small portrait of his two-year-old son Michel from 1880. It is worth noting that Michel later donated the paintings in Monet’s studio and his personal collection to the Parisian museum in 1966. Monet’s collection, which included works by other artists such as Rodin, Renoir, de Severac, Durand, and Paulin, was only intended for his personal enjoyment and that of a select few friends.
The section titled “Motif in Motion” illustrates the beginning of Monet’s plein air painting experience, characterized by quick brushstrokes capturing fleeting moments and the search for the effects of light. Artists such as Jongkind (1819-1891) and Boudin (1824-1898) introduced Monet to this practice, and their drawings and paintings are displayed alongside a couple of Delacroix’s works on paper. Additionally, there are about ten of Monet’s own paintings in this section, including “The Beach at Trouville” from 1870, featuring his wife Camille and a cousin as models.
The following section, “Impressionist Light,” presents a sequence of Monet’s works characterized by color and light, where forms seem to dissolve to give way to visual sensations. This series showcases Monet’s mastery in capturing the ever-changing qualities of light and its impact on the perception of the scene.
The exhibition provides a unique opportunity to delve into the world of Claude Monet, a pioneer of Impressionism, and to understand the profound connection he had with nature. Through his paintings, viewers can witness his ability to convey the fleeting moments of light and atmosphere, showcasing his dedication to capturing the essence of the natural world. The exhibition is a collaboration between the city of Padua, the Musée Marmottan Monet, and the production company Arthemisia, offering art enthusiasts an exceptional opportunity to appreciate the works of this renowned artist. Don’t miss the chance to experience Monet’s studio in nature.