The Courtauld Gallery presents “Monet and London – Views of the Thames,” an exhibition from 27th September to 19th January 2025. It features Monet’s works from 1899-1901 focusing on London’s bridges and the Houses of Parliament, exploring atmospheric conditions of the time. The exhibition is sold out but highlights the significance of Monet’s artistic journey in a modernising city.
The Courtauld Gallery is currently hosting the sold-out exhibition “Monet and London – Views of the Thames,” running from 27th September to 19th January 2025. This exhibition showcases Monet’s fascination with the atmospheric effects of London during the years 1899 to 1901, particularly focusing on Charing Cross Bridge, Waterloo Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament. Despite being small, the exhibition provides a rich exploration of Monet’s artistic intentions, capturing the industrial vibes and transformations of a growing metropolis.
Upon entering through the Impressionist gallery, visitors are welcomed by iconic artworks, including Manet’s “A Bar at the Folies-Bergere.” In Monet’s dedicated rooms, paintings such as “Waterloo Bridge, Overcast Weather” reveal his vibrant use of colours to depict the allure of London’s fog and smoke. The second room features several views of the Houses of Parliament, showcasing a range of emotions through colours and light, such as the intense “London, The Houses of Parliament, Shaft of Sunlight in the Fog.”
The exhibition also educates visitors on Monet’s thoughts through letters exchanged with his wife, detailing how he commissioned custom canvases for this series. Although Monet appreciated Turner’s work, the exhibition labelling asserts he remained largely uninfluenced by him, sparking a debate in art history, especially considering Turner’s earlier atmospheric explorations.
This exhibition is a rare opportunity to witness many of Monet’s London-themed paintings together, although tickets are sold out, which may prompt an extension of this event. It’s an unforgettable glimpse into Monet’s artistic journey in a modernising London.
The “Monet and London – Views of the Thames” exhibition celebrates Claude Monet’s works focused on London’s changing atmospheric conditions during the late 19th century. It features his paintings created between 1899 and 1901, depicting iconic London sites. This exhibition highlights Monet’s innovative techniques to capture light and weather, particularly the industrial fog, marking a shift in urban experiences during the rise of modernity. The exhibition’s significance is enhanced by its analysis of historical influences, including the relationship between Monet and Turner’s artistic impressions.
The “Monet and London – Views of the Thames” exhibition at The Courtauld Gallery offers an enriching experience showcasing Monet’s exploration of London’s atmosphere during a transformative period. Visitors can enjoy his captivating paintings of bridges and the Houses of Parliament, reflecting the vibrant yet polluted backdrop of London. While the exhibition is sold out, its potential extension may allow more art enthusiasts to engage with Monet’s unique visions of a modern city.
Original Source: substack.com