Throughout his career, Monet painted many landscapes and seascapes, often focusing on the changing light and weather conditions. Later exhibitions of the Impressionists included work by Mary Cassatt and Paul Cezanne.Īlthough the exhibition was not well-received by critics, it marked the beginning of a new artistic movement that would go on to have a profound influence on modern art. It caused a scandal due to its loose brushstrokes and vivid use of colour. The group’s name was inspired by Monet’s painting “Impression, Sunrise,” which was on display at the exhibition. In 1874, Monet helped organize their first exhibition, which featured works by himself, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and other artists. Together they developed a style of painting that became known as Impressionism. Monet soon formed a group of like-minded artists such as Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Edgar Degas who also wanted to challenge the traditional style of painting. He became increasingly interested in capturing the effects of light and atmosphere on his subjects, and his paintings began to feature vibrant, bright colours and loose brushwork. The family moved frequently throughout France, and Monet’s paintings began to reflect the landscapes and natural environments of each location. In 1870, Monet married his long-time companion, Camille Doncieux, with whom he had two sons. In 1863, he submitted his painting, “Le déjeuner sur l’herbe,” to the Salon des Refusés, an exhibition for rejected artists. Upon his return to France, he settled in Paris and began to establish himself as an artist. In 1861, Monet joined the French army and served for two years in Algeria, during which time he continued to paint and draw. He became fascinated by the effects of light and colour and began to create paintings that captured the fleeting beauty of the world around him. However, he quickly became disillusioned with the traditional art teachings of the time and instead started to experiment with his own techniques. There, he developed a love for nature and painting, often spending hours outside with his paintbrush and canvas.Īt the age of 15, Monet was sent to Paris to study art. Monet’s family moved to Le Havre when he was five years old. He was born on 14 November, 1840, in Paris, France.

Claude Monet was a French artist and a leading figure in the Impressionist movement.

Claude oscar monet impression sunrise