Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Wednesday French Inspiration

Before visiting the Musee de l'Orangerie in Paris, I was completely unaware that Claude Monet's Water Lilies was  a series of approximately 250 oil paintings or various sizes.  I thought it was one painting. This May, it was announced that today, June 23rd, the 1906 Nympheas work would be auctioned in London. (I wish I could afford the estimated price of between £30 and £40 million).

In two oval rooms house within l'Orangerie, eight large paintings are now available under direct diffused light as was originally intended by Monet. The paintings depict Monet's flower garden at Giverny.  Many of the works were painted while Monet suffered from cataracts
It is romantic and almost magical when you stand surrounded by these magnificent works of art.  I felt all twitterpatted with a desire to be spun around the room or to be wooed by poetry.  The imagery really does evoke strong emotion.  Just like a good book artfully crafted, these works have the ability to transport you into a different world.

What has the power to to evoke strong emotions within you? 
Have you ever felt like you walked into a fairytale?

4 Awesome Reactions:

Kristina P. said...

I didn't know this either! I actually love Monet.

Jackee said...

Great post, Amber! The mountains and forests can do that to me. I never feel so alive as I do there.

And I love that about Monet--painting some of his greatest works while under physical limitations. Those that create art under limitation make the accomplishment all the more sweeter to me.

Thanks for sharing! :o)

Carolyn V. said...

Music brings out my feelings. Beautiful music, happy music. It's all good. =)

amber_mtmc said...

I remember that random tidbit from my Humanities class. One day I will have a Monet painting. By that, I mean I will have a Monet copy, like I will ever be able to afford an original!

I agree with Carolyn--music makes my heart skip a few beats, especially songs with great meaning attached.