Monet: Immersive Journey – The Light I Saw
For the first time in Nagoya, an immersive digital art experience awaits, offering a unique perspective on the scenery that captivated Claude Monet.
Claude Monet (1840-1926), born in Paris, France, was a pivotal figure in the Impressionist movement. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to capturing the ephemeral qualities of light and time on canvas, employing a palette of soft colors that resulted in a vast and influential body of work. Monet, deeply connected to the natural world, sought to translate the subtle nuances of sunlight onto his canvases, once stating, "I want to paint like a bird sings."
This exhibition meticulously traces the significant locations that shaped Monet’s artistic journey. Visitors will be transported to the places he visited, gaining an intimate understanding of the landscapes he witnessed, the family and friends who shared his life, and the tranquility of his final residence at Giverny. All of this is masterfully interwoven with a complementary musical score. The immersive video presentation commences with Impression, soleil levant (Impression, Sunrise), a seminal work first displayed at the 1874 group exhibition. This independent showcase, organized by Monet and his colleagues after their departure from the Salon (the official exhibition) in the late 19th century, marked a turning point in art history. It was a critic’s derisive commentary on this very painting that is said to have given rise to the term "Impressionism."
The exhibition poses a central question: how did Monet navigate life and pursue his artistic vision in 19th-century France, the birthplace of Impressionism? What unique qualities of light did the painter perceive and strive to capture? This immersive experience invites you to delve into Monet’s world, surrounded by a symphony of light and color, and to contemplate the very essence of his artistic pursuit.
Beyond the video exhibition, dedicated areas provide further context and engagement. An educational section elucidates the evolution of Impressionist exhibitions, explores the thematic concerns that preoccupied Monet, examines his innovative "series" technique, and delves into the influence of Japonisme on his work. Additionally, a photo spot, inspired by the iconic "Water Lily Pond" at Giverny, offers a tangible connection to the artist’s world.
Event Details:
- Dates: April 9 (Wed), 2025 – June 22 (Sun), 2025
- Closed: Open throughout the exhibition period
- Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Note: Last entry is 45 minutes before closing)
- Venue: Kanayama Minami Building Art Museum (Former Nagoya Boston Museum of Fine Arts)
- Fees:
- Same-day tickets:
- General (University students and above): 2,500 yen
- High/Junior High School Students: 2,000 yen
- Elementary School Students: 1,000 yen
- Advance tickets:
- General (University students and above): 2,300 yen
- High/Junior High School Students: 1,800 yen
- Elementary School Students: 800 yen
- Same-day tickets:
- Contact: Me～Tele
- TEL: 052-331-9966 (Weekdays 10:00-18:00)
- Website URL: https://www.nagoyatv.com/program_event/monet2024.html
- Access: Kanayama Station (JR Tokaido Line, Chuo Main Line, Subway Meijo Line, Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line), South Exit
- Remarks: Please be aware that to ensure a comfortable experience within the exhibition hall and merchandise corner, visitor numbers may be limited during peak hours. This policy applies to all attendees, including those with pre-purchased advance or same-day tickets.
What is Impressionism?
Impressionism is an art movement that began in the late 19th century in France. It focuses on capturing the effects of light and color in the natural world. Unlike earlier art styles that emphasized detail and precision, Impressionist artists aimed to convey the essence of a scene. They often painted outdoors to observe and depict the changing qualities of light and atmosphere.
Impressionists used loose brushwork and vibrant colors to create a sense of movement. This approach allowed them to capture everyday life, from cityscapes to landscapes. Initially criticized for departing from traditional norms, the movement eventually gained recognition for its innovative approach.
Key figures in Impressionism include Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas. Their work laid the foundation for modern art, influencing many artists and movements that followed. Monet’s exploration of light and color, as seen in his series of water lilies and haystacks, exemplifies the principles of Impressionism and continues to engage audiences worldwide.
