In early Term 3, Year 11 French students were welcomed to the NGV for a look at their brand-new French Impressionism exhibition. We were treated to an in-depth look at the history of the artistic movement, led by an NGV representative, whose extensive knowledge of painters like Monet, Renoir and others, allowed us to further appreciate the rich nature of the featured artworks and their context. The Impressionist movement was described as a style of art originating in France, which explored the effects of light and colour in outdoor settings, with artists often painting ‘en plein air’, or outside. Impressionist pieces also focused on capturing everyday life, deviating from the most popular works of the time, which emphasised posed or often regal settings.  

I personally loved learning about the roots of Impressionist and viewing the earlier art that preceded and influenced the style, such as Eugene Boudin’s pieces. I found it interesting that the initial reception of Impressionism was fairly poor and even ridiculed. However, whether past viewers of the artworks were curious or contemptuous towards the movement, more recently, the works of Impressionist artists have been solidified as revolutionary.  

The exhibition itself was an incredible display of Impressionist pieces, with the surrounding decor paying homage to the late 19th century, featuring antique tables, couches and mirrors. The artworks were displayed in detailed gold frames, adding to the exhibition’s lavish, French atmosphere. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring each of the ten rooms of the exhibition, most decorated in the same style, but varying in colour scheme and size. A few of the rooms, however, were totally different from the others. My personal favourite was inspired by Monet’s Water Lilies murals from the Musée de l’Orangerie!  

It was also helpful to put the artists’ names to faces, as the exhibition’s exit featured portraits of the various painters involved in the movement, along with a brief biography. Photos of the artists’ homes and gardens were hung throughout the exit, providing context for the inspiration of many renowned artworks today.  

Ultimately, the excursion was a great experience, allowing us to broaden our knowledge of French artwork and history, certainly a highlight of the year! 

Sophie 
Year 11