Are you fascinated by Impressionism? Then head to Normandy, to Giverny to be precise, where the Musée des Impressionismes is dedicated to the history of this movement, which celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2024, and to Claude Monet, the leader of this artistic movement dating from the mid-19th century.
Opened in 2009, the Musée des impressionnismes is the successor to the Musée d'art américain Giverny. Architecturally, the museum blends in perfectly with the surrounding landscape of the Seine valley, the birthplace of Impressionism. It was in Giverny that Monet settled in 1883, bringing with him artists - especially Americans - who wanted to apply Impressionist principles to the heart of the Normandy landscape.
A very... natural museum
Built into the hillside, the building has opaque beige limestone walls and terraces planted with heather and flower beds surrounded by hedges. The building is open to the outside thanks to large oriel windows. A fine tribute to the nature so present in the works of the Impressionist painters. The museum building blends in so well with its natural surroundings to help visitors understand the history of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism and how they developed in France and around the world.
The garden, a work of art in its own right
Located just a few meters from Claude Monet's home and gardens, the museum's garden asserts its identity through its contemporary aspect. In fact, while offering an abundance of flowers and colors from April to October, the space is structured into monochrome or thematic rooms, separated by small hedges. All the ingredients of a French garden, anchored in its century, the fruit of the imagination of landscape designer Mark Rudkin and museum architect Philippe Robert.
But this outdoor space is also multifaceted, offering visitors a majestic meadow (sometimes covered with poppies, sometimes with haystacks - subjects so dear to Monet) and a camouflage for the museum building, which blends discreetly into the vegetation. The garden, which has been awarded the "Jardin Remarquable" label for its daily care, is the subject of a monthly guided tour.
Sisley, Maurice Denis, Hiramatsu Reiji...
This international outlook is reflected in the "Around Monet" room. This exhibition focuses on Claude Monet's influence on his contemporaries and the generations that followed him: from Sisley to the American artist colony in Giverny, from Maurice Denis to the Japanese painter Hiramatsu Reiji. Each year, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on themes from this pictorial movement, which has continued to fascinate nature lovers for almost two centuries.
A collection on the move
Since 2009, the Musée des Impressionistes Giverny has been constantly adding to its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works influenced by this artistic movement. The collection includes works by Claude Monet's friends and admirers, obtained through deposits or the generosity of donors. More than 250 works in all, including donations from Japanese painter Hiramatsu Reiji, who was captivated by Claude Monet's work and drew inspiration for his nihonga, as well as photographs of Monet's home and gardens.
Impressionism for all
In addition to its permanent and temporary exhibitions, the museum offers a dynamic cultural program, with on-site and online activities for young visitors, adults and families alike. There's no age limit to learning about Impressionism!
Recommendations and tips Immerse yourself in the world of Impressionism! Want to know how to get to the museum? There are at least three ways to get there: - by car (about 45 minutes from Paris) - by public transport, which takes only a little longer (and has a much lower environmental impact), thanks to the Vernon-Giverny train station and the many options available for making the journey. - cycling, via the La Seine à vélo itinerary, which takes you as far as Le Havre and the Normandy coast, so dear to the Impressionists. Another tip: remember to book your ticket in advance, especially if you plan to visit the museum in high season.
Find out more: - Discover the Musée des impressionnismes Giverny - Organize your stay in Normandy
By France.fr
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