Personal life

Name of Artist: Claude Monet

Birth Date: Nov. 14 1840
Birth Place: Paris, France

What later life events (marriage, children, deaths, etc.) had a major influence on the artist? (Your
response should be a minimum of 100 words and complete sentences.)

As a child Monet wanted to be an artist, his father wanted him to be in the ship and grocery business
but his mother supported his desire as she was influenced by the arts as a singer. Later on he entered
the Le Havre secondary school of arts. His mentor was trained by a famous artist Jacques-louis David,
Eugene Boudin taught him to use oil paints as he was skilled with charcoal drawings. With the death
of his mother he later moved to live with his aunt, there he lived near the louvre and admired all the
painters from the old masters.

Time Period

Describe what prevailing style of art was popular when the artist first started? (Your description
should be at least three complete sentences in length.)
Romanticism was a prevailing style at the time on the verge of Modern Art. Realism was a
growing style in France at the time. As Monet was older Post impressionism was growing as
a few new modern art styles were emerging.

What new style did the artist start, or get involved in?
Monet started with charcoal drawings and locals enjoyed them. He later was taught by his
mentor in the art of oil painting. The specific style he used was called en plein air a style
that emphasized outdoor techniques in his paintings.

What important historical events happened during the artists lifetime that influenced one or more
pieces? (Your response should be a minimum of 100 words and complete sentences.)

Some events affected Monet in a great way. He was eventually forced into serving in the military and
sent to Algiers. The African environment affected his outlook in life and on his artistic ability. His art
was heavily impression and romanticism. He later continued his work trying to make a name. Later
The Franco-Prussian war emerged and Monet took refuge in London leading to the production of his
painting of the Westminster Bridge (1971). After the war he returned to France and settled down in
Argenteuil. He later protested the current salon system and created the first impressionist exhibit.
History through a few wars and cultural experiences affected Monet and in my eyes inspired his
painting and giving them culture and beauty.

Select one piece that your artist did

Name of the piece: Sailboat at Le Petit Gennevilliers

Copy and paste your artists painting here:

What is it about? (Two or more complete sentences, minimum)

I could not find a meaning behind this painting. My perspective is telling the story of how
peaceful nature is around the viewer and that the boat paints a scene of beauty and clarity.
Calm seems to be a feeling the viewer experiences. In the background seems to show the
busy scene of the industry and destruction of nature. I feel most of Monets paintings express
nature and the need for it.

Why did you choose this piece? (Two or more complete sentences, minimum)
The imagery captures my attention, the sailboat at sunset at least looks like sunset is
captivating. It shows the piece at peace with the boat and everything around it, as you look
further into the piece you can see the smoke and industry of today.
Name two elements of design that the artist used in this piece:
Color and texture

Name one principle of design that the artist used in this piece:
Contrast
When you first looked at this piece what was your reaction to it? (Two or more complete
sentences, minimum)
I felt peaceful and content. It brought me to a place of still and leisure, I really enjoyed the
imagery and scenery of the peace. I really enjoy Monets paintings and this would have to be
my favorite.
Did your reaction change as you studied this piece? Explain.
I would say it broaden my perspective and opened me to a few new ideas but overall I have
the same feelings.
Sources

List two sources you used to gather your information

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claude_Monet
2. http://www.claudemonetgallery.org/Sailboat-At-Le-Petit-Gennevilliers.html