Claude Oscar Monet was a founder of French Impressionist painting, and the term 'Impressionism' is derived from the title of his painting 'Impression, Sunrise' ('Impression, soleil levant'). Born on November 14, 1840, in Paris, France, Monet grew up in Le Havre in Normandy. His early work showed great talent for drawing, and he initially made a name for himself with caricatures. Monet's early exposure to the principles of plein-air painting would shape his future artistic path.
In 1859, Monet moved to Paris to pursue his art career, where he was exposed to the works of other artists and the burgeoning literary and artistic movement of the time. He was drafted into the military and served in Algeria, but his aunt intervened and secured his discharge, on the condition that he continued his art studies. Monet studied at the Académie Suisse and later with Charles Gleyre, where he met future Impressionists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Alfred Sisley, and Frédéric Bazille. Together, they explored new approaches to art, eschewing the traditional methods taught in the art academies of the time.
Monet's commitment to capturing natural light and the ever-changing qualities of the natural world led him to develop a style characterized by quick brush strokes and a rich palette of colors. He often painted the same scene multiple times to capture the changing light and seasons. His series paintings, such as those of the haystacks, Rouen Cathedral, and water lilies, exhibit this approach.
Financial hardships, the Franco-Prussian War, and personal tragedies marked Monet's life. However, he found some solace and inspiration in his gardens at Giverny, where he created the famous series of water lily paintings that would become some of his most renowned works. These paintings, among others, showcased his fascination with reflection and the effects of light on water.
Monet's work gained recognition and financial success in the latter part of his life. He became a celebrated figure in the art world, and his works were actively sought after by collectors. Monet continued to paint until his death on December 5, 1926, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that profoundly influenced the course of modern art. His dedication to capturing the nuances of light and atmosphere has inspired countless artists, and his works continue to be celebrated for their beauty and innovative approach to capturing the essence of the natural world.