In the captivating world of impressionist art, beyond the water lily gardens of Giverny, lie artistic treasures that deserve to be discovered. Let yourself be guided on a poetic journey to meet other emblematic places where the colors and light of the impressionists continue to shine.
Immerse yourself in the impressionist universe
If the Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny are a must-see destination for lovers ofImpressionism, there are a multitude of other sites that are just as captivating but often unknown. In this year marking the 150th anniversary of this revolutionary artistic movement, let’s set off to discover impressionist treasures scattered across France.
The hidden gems of Île-de-France
In Île-de-France, several impressionist places emerge from the shadow of Parisian celebrities. HAS Auvers sur Oise, city where Vincent Van Gogh spent his last days, are the Auvers Castle and theAuberge Ravoux, known as the Van Gogh House. Although less crowded, these sites offer an immersive experience into the lives and works of the masters of Impressionism.
HAS Yerres, there Maison Caillebotte allows you to admire the works of Gustave Caillebotte in a sumptuous setting. HAS Pontoise, THE Pissarro museum pays tribute to Camille Pissarro with an extensive collection of her works. Finally, Argenteuil houses the Claude Monet Impressionist House, retracing the painter’s Parisian years before his move to Giverny.
Little Norman jewels
Normandy, cradle of Impressionism, is full of hidden treasures. Although the Rouen Museum of Fine Arts and the Eugène Boudin museum, in Honfleur, enjoy a certain notoriety, other sites remain in the shadows. For example, the Dieppe Castle Museum offers a rich selection of impressionist works, and the Thomas Henry museum in Cherbourg holds the largest collection of paintings by Jean-François Millet.
Parisian museums not to be missed
Paris remains an essential stopover for any lover of Impressionism. Beyond the famous Orsay Museum, discover the Orangerie museum with his famous Water Lilies by Monet, and the Marmottan Monet museum, which houses rare and valuable works by Monet and other Impressionists.
Tips for a successful immersion
- Plan your visits to avoid busy periods. The first days of the week are often the quietest.
- Take the time to read the explanatory panels and use audio guides to deepen your understanding of the works on display.
- Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions, often rich in works rarely exhibited to the public.
An invitation to an artistic journey
In conclusion, Impressionism is not just about Giverny. Many other sites in Île-de-France and Normandy offer fascinating insights into this revolutionary artistic movement. By exploring these little-known treasures, you will enrich your understanding and appreciation of impressionist masterpieces, while enjoying magnificent settings often steeped in history.
