Monet/Mitchell: Painting the French Landscape is a first-of-its-kind art exhibition that opened this week on Monday. It is the first exhibition on American soil to examine the relationship between Claude Monet, an impressionist painter, and American abstract expressionist, Joan Mitchell. 

The exhibition in Missouri at the Saint Louis Art Museum features 24 large-scale paintings. Twelve paintings in the exhibition are by Monet and have been lent by the Musee Marmottan Monet, which holds the most extensive collection of paintings. The remaining paintings are by Mitchell and are from the Foundation Louis Art Vuitton’s collection.

Despite the different times in which they lived, both artists drew inspiration from the French scenery shown in the abundance of trees, water and flowers in both their works. The two artists are also known for their bravery in straying from the traditions that had long stood within their medium. During Mitchell’s time in France, she overlooked a house that served as Monet’s living quarters and studio for many years. Consequently, many believe Mitchell to have drawn inspiration from Monet’s work. This is a belief that she both welcomed and denied. Nevertheless, the exhibit examines these similarities and expresses admiration for their monumental paintings.

The exhibition will open in a public review on Friday and remain open through June 25.

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