Claude Monet: The Father of Impressionism

Claude Monet (1840-1926) was a pioneeringFrench painter and a leading figure in the Impressionist movement, which transformed modern art. Born Oscar-Claude Monet in Paris, he moved to Le Havre with his family at age five. His mother supported his artistic ambitions, while his father wanted him to pursue a business career. Monet began drawing caricatures as a teenager, selling them to make money. His early artistic developmentwas influenced by Eugène Boudin, who introduced him to paintingen plein air(outdoor painting).

In 1859, Monet moved to Paris to study at the Académie Suisse, where he met fellow artists like Camille Pissarro. His studies were interrupted by military service in Algeria, but he continued to develop his style upon returning. Monet's workwas first exhibited in the Paris Salon in 1865, but his innovative approach to capturing light and atmosphereset him apart.

Monet's personal lifewas intertwined with his art. He married Camille Doncieux in 1870, and she became a frequent model in his early works. After Camille died in 1879, Monet moved to Giverny, creating a stunning garden that inspired his famous Water Lilies series. His second wife, Alice Hoschedé, also played a significant role in his life and work.

Monet'spaintings, such as the Haystacks, Rouen Cathedral, and Water Lilies, explored the effects of light and weather on a single subject, showcasing his commitment to capturing transient moments. These works were groundbreaking in their approach to colour and composition, influencing generations of artists and solidifying Monet's legacy as apivotal precursor to modernism.

Monet's later years were marked by declining eyesight due to cataracts, yet he continued to paint, adapting his techniques to his changing vision. He died in 1926 in Giverny,leaving behind a substantial collection of artworks that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. His contributions to art are celebrated globally inmajor museums and collections, and his innovative spirit remains a cornerstone of modern artistic expression.