Celebrating 100 Years of Claude Monet: 5 Must-See Exhibitions in France

Celebrating 100 Years of Claude Monet: 5 Must-See Exhibitions in France

Claude Monet, a master of the Impressionist movement, passed away 100 years ago on December 5, 1926, in the quaint village of Giverny in Normandy. His revolutionary approach to art not only transformed perceptions but also played a pivotal role in the evolution of Impressionism. To honor his legacy, numerous exhibitions are set to take place in Paris and Normandy throughout 2026.

Monet Exhibition at Le Havre

From June 5 to September 27, 2026, the Musée d’Art Moderne André Malraux (MuMa) will host an exhibition titled "Monet in Le Havre." This event will whisk visitors back to Monet's early years (1845-1874), tracing his journey from settling in Le Havre with his family to his first Impressionist exhibition in Paris. Featuring 80 works, the exhibition will showcase Monet's artistic evolution through sketches, still lifes, and seascapes.

Before the Water Lilies: Monet's Exploration of Giverny

From March 27 to July 5, 2026, the Musée des Impressionismes Giverny will present "Before the Water Lilies: Monet's Exploration of Giverny." This exhibition invites guests to immerse themselves in Monet's world during his early years in Giverny. Visitors will experience the enchanting beauty of Giverny through Monet's eyes, from the vibrant poppy fields to the winding paths shaded by willow trees.

Normandy Impressionist Festival 2026

This year, the Normandy Impressionist Festival will take place from May 29 to September 27, focusing on Monet's beloved Giverny gardens, where he resided for over 40 years. The water garden, with its iconic lily pond, served as inspiration for countless masterpieces. The festival will gather international artists, showcasing various art forms, from painting to dance and film.

Monet and Time: An Exhibition in Paris

From September 30, 2026, to January 25, 2027, the Musée de l’Orangerie will host "Monet, Painting Time." This exhibition will invite attendees to explore the relationship between art and time, featuring Monet's renowned works, including his Nymphéas series and the Rouen Cathedral paintings. A segment of the exhibition will incorporate virtual reality experiences, allowing visitors to delve deeper into Monet's fascination with light and time.

Landscapes from Monet to Hockney

From September 24, 2026, to January 31, 2027, the Musée Marmottan Monet will present "Landscapes from Monet to Hockney." This exhibition will focus on landscape art from 1890 to the present, drawing comparisons between Monet's works and those of contemporary artists like David Hockney. It offers a unique opportunity to explore Monet's influence and the evolution of the Impressionist movement across generations of artists.

Explore the Inspiration Behind Monet's Art

Apart from the exhibitions, the landscapes that inspired Monet are still waiting to be discovered. Stroll along the grand boulevards of Paris, immerse yourself in the Fontainbleau forest, or take in the stunning views from the chalk cliffs of Étretat. These locations not only boast breathtaking scenery but also weave fascinating tales about the life and career of this great artist.