Vase of Flowers 1882

Claude Monet made this Vase of Flowers with oil paints on canvas. Monet's approach to painting was all about capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere, and this is brilliantly reflected in the materiality of this work. The thick, almost sculptural application of paint creates a textured surface that brings the flowers to life. His energetic brushstrokes and bold use of color creates a sense of movement and vitality, reflecting his engagement with the world around him. But there is an interplay between art and industry here as well. The industrial production of pigments in the 19th century allowed artists like Monet to experiment with a wider range of colors and techniques than ever before. These were not colours that could be foraged from the earth, they came from chemical processes. Monet has embraced the manufactured world, but filtered it through his sensory experience. The vase of flowers, then, becomes more than just a pretty picture. It's a testament to the power of materials, making, and context in shaping our understanding of art.