The Art Institute of Chicago and Monet
There is something about Claude Monet's art work, specifically his water lilies studies that not only brings joy to me but thousands of people...and always have.
The Art Institute of Chicago has a wonderful opportunity for you to enjoy pieces of Monet's work from private collectors that are now there on exhibit through June 14.
. This might be a chance to see work that has never been seen. The Arti Institute owns many spectacular pieces that together make a great viewing for a Monet fan or just someone who loves Impressionism.
Monet and Chicago is the first exhibition to trace our city’s unique and early embrace of the beloved Impressionist’s work. This overview introduces you to the many themes explored in the exhibition galleries.
The exhibit is breathtaking and well worth your investing your time and efforts. Tickets are timed and though the exhibit is quite large, you do not feel crowded. If anything, you feel almost as though you are having your own private visit.
Short videos on the Monet and Chicago exhibition page show technical images that illuminate the artist’s working methods. Where he painted over to add snow over grass, or in the case of the hay stacks simply painted out hay stacks to change the composition of a painting. Of the 2 dozen studies he did on haystacks, the Art Institute of Chicago owns 6. This is impressive in itself but also quite magical to see all 6 pieces, one right after another.
The Art Institute of Chicago has been a long time supporter, investor and appreciator of Monet and other Impressionist painters.
An exhibition of 20 paintings from Durand-Ruel’s collection(Monet's agent) opened at Thurber’s Art Gallery in Chicago in May 1888—the earliest documented display of French Impressionist art in the city—in which Monet’s paintings were described as the “most fascinating among them.” Chicago quickly became a strong competitor in the growing American market. A second exhibition of French paintings from Durand-Ruel, including works by Monet, was held there in October, prompting a reviewer for the Chicago Tribune to declare, “Why go to Paris since Paris has come to Chicago?”
With considerable financial support from dealer Durand-Ruel, Monet and his family moved upriver into what would become the artist’s final home in Giverny, a village of 279 inhabitants, about 50 miles northwest of Paris. Still, Vétheuil remained a place imbued with personal significance and suitable subjects that Monet explored for decades on return trips.
I encourage you to visit the Art Institute to see this unbelievable collection. For tickets Email museum-sales@artic.edu.
And while there don't miss the gift shop so you can take a little Monet home. Plan the day, as the entire museum is a luxury that will enrich you.
Cheers,
Jacqueline Gillam Fairchild
Author: The Nantucket Series. Coming soon, the Mermaid Mansion
