Experience the Artistic Delight of “French Moderns” in Columbia!
Columbia, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as the Columbia Museum of Art opens its doors to an extraordinary exhibition titled “French Moderns: Monet to Matisse, 1850-1950”. This captivating showcase runs until January 5, 2025, and features nearly 60 stunning works from some of the most celebrated artists who once called Paris home. If you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, this exhibition is a must-see!
A Journey Through Time and Style
Stepping into the gallery is like taking a time machine back to Paris during its golden age of art. The exhibition focuses on the artistic “isms” that defined a pivotal era in Western art, from Realism and Impressionism to Surrealism and Symbolism. However, rather than organizing the works by movement, the exhibition is arranged by subject matter, showcasing pieces in categories like landscape, figure study, still life, and portraiture.
Exploring the Landscapes
Let’s take a stroll! Upon entering, the first gallery awaits with an intriguing oil painting by the Realist painter Gustave Courbet. His seascape, “The Wave”, painted in 1869, presents a moody view of the ocean that Courbet described as a “caged monster who would devour me.” It’s a compelling start that sets the tone for the artistic journey ahead.
As you move through the exhibition, prepare to be mesmerized by Claude Monet’s striking piece, “Houses of Parliament, Sunlight Effect”. This Impressionist masterpiece captures the iconic British government building, cloaked in gentle hues of the evening light. Monet’s skillful application of vibrant brush strokes creates a lively dance of color that truly makes the artwork come alive, inviting visitors to interpret the scene through their own eyes.
Symbolism and Surrealism
Taking a few steps away from Monet, you’ll encounter another captivating work by French artist Odilon Redon titled “Jacob Wrestling with the Angels”. This nearly four-and-a-half-foot high oil painting features a dramatic scene where dawn light dominates the canvas. The figures of Jacob and the angels seem almost hidden within the trees, showcasing the triumph of the human spirit at first light.
Exploring the Human Form
And that’s just the beginning! The exhibition beautifully transitions from landscapes to figure studies, featuring the naturalistic sculptures of Auguste Rodin before moving on to the bold, abstract forms represented in Cubist works by artists like Jacques Villon and Fernand Léger. Visitors can witness nearly a century of modern art, experiencing the evolution of styles and the techniques that define each era.
A Rare Opportunity in Columbia
This fantastic show was organized by the acclaimed Brooklyn Museum, one of the first American institutions to dive into collecting modern French art. You don’t have to book a flight to New York City to enjoy this exceptional collection; it’s all right here in Columbia!
So, gather your friends, bring your family, and immerse yourself in the world of modern art. The “French Moderns” exhibition promises to be an enriching experience, and who knows, you might leave with a newfound appreciation for the incredible diversity of artistic expression found within these walls!
Plan Your Visit!
The Columbia Museum of Art is open and ready to welcome visitors eager to explore this visually stunning exhibition. Don’t miss out on a unique opportunity to connect with over 100 years of artistic history right in your own backyard!
