Art Explained: Impression, Sunrise by Claude Monet

Impression, Sunrise is a painting by French artist Claude Monet, created in 1872. The painting depicts the harbor of the French coastal town of Le Havre at sunrise, with a vibrant orange and pink sky over the water and boats in the harbor.



Monet was one of the founders of the Impressionist movement, which focused on capturing the fleeting moments of light and color that were often overlooked by traditional artists. Impression, Sunrise is considered to be one of the best examples of this approach, with Monet using loose brushstrokes and vibrant colors to create a sense of movement and atmosphere.


The painting was first exhibited in 1874, and was met with controversy and criticism. Many critics did not like the loose brushwork and vibrant colors, and the painting was derisively called "Impression" by one critic, which gave the Impressionist movement its name.


Despite the initial criticism, Impression, Sunrise is now considered to be one of Monet's greatest masterpieces, and is one of the most iconic paintings of the Impressionist movement. It is on display at the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris, where it continues to inspire and delight visitors with its beauty and vitality.

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