Claude Monet (1840-1926) was a French painter considered one of the founders of Impressionism, an artistic movement that
sought to capture the visual impression or sensation produced by a scene rather than depicting it realistically. Monet
is best known for his series of plein-air paintings that capture the light and colour of nature, especially landscapes
and gardens.
Monet began his artistic career in the 1860s and quickly became one of the leaders of the Impressionist movement. Rather
than following traditional academic techniques, Monet preferred to work outdoors and capture the atmosphere and light of
the moment.
His early Impressionist paintings, such as "Impression, Rising Sun" (1872), were criticised at the time for
their lack of clarity and precision, but were eventually accepted as innovative works of art.
Throughout his career, Monet focused on the exploration of light and colour, and how these elements can be used to evoke
emotions and sensations. His paintings of Rouen Cathedral, for example, show how the light changes throughout the day
and how this affects the appearance of the structure. In addition to nature and architecture, Monet also painted
portraits and everyday scenes.
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Throughout his career, Monet focused on the exploration of light and colour, and how these elements can be used to evoke
emotions and sensations. His paintings of Rouen Cathedral, for example, show how the light changes throughout the day
and how this affects the appearance of the structure. In addition to nature and architecture, Monet also painted
portraits and everyday scenes.
Here are some interesting facts about Claude Monet:
- At the age of 16, Monet sold his first drawing for a small amount of money.
- Monet was in the French army for a brief period.
- During his lifetime, Monet painted more than 2,500 works of art, many of which are in museums around the world.
- Monet is considered one of the founders of Impressionism, an artistic movement characterised by depicting visual
impressions of the outside world rather than realistic, precise forms.
- Monet's famous painting, "Impression, Rising Sun", gave its name to the Impressionist movement.