Claude Monet (1840–1926) was a French painter and a founding figure of Impressionism, a movement that transformed modern art through its emphasis on light, color, and atmosphere. Monet is celebrated for capturing fleeting moments in nature and everyday life with immediacy and expressive brushwork.

Born in Paris and raised in Normandy, Monet developed a strong connection to the natural landscape from an early age. He rejected traditional studio practices in favor of painting outdoors, allowing him to observe and record changing light conditions directly. This approach led to a new visual language focused on perception rather than precise detail.

Monet’s paintings are distinguished by loose brushstrokes, vibrant color harmonies, and subtle variations in light. He often returned to the same subject repeatedly, painting it at different times of day and in different seasons to explore shifting atmospheres. Water, gardens, and natural scenery became central themes in his work, reflecting his lifelong fascination with nature.

Today, Claude Monet is regarded as one of the most influential artists in art history. His innovative approach to painting laid the foundation for modern artistic movements, and his works remain admired for their freshness, luminosity, and timeless appeal.

• Movement: Impressionism
• Known for: light-focused painting, outdoor scenes, expressive brushwork
• Themes: nature, light, atmosphere, water, and landscape