If you’re anything like me, you think you ‘know’ the French Impressionists. In our highly visual world, we are saturated with reproductions of their paintings; on t-shirts, chocolate box lids, greeting cards, and even tea towels. That’s why it’s so important to see artworks in the flesh, so to speak. 

I saw my first Impressionist painting outside of a reproduction during my early days travelling through Europe. I still remember how surprised I was by the heavy, gilded frames surrounding these artworks from the late 19th century (the movement began in the 1860s and flourished through the 1870s and 1880s). These frames gave me context for the era- one of bustles, hats, and social conventions – that I hadn’t truly understood before. 

During Term 3, the Year 10 Art class visited the National Gallery of Victoria to see the French Impressionists exhibition. The NGV has a golden touch when it comes to curating; each space felt like a 19th-century drawing room or salon. Yet the shock of how fresh and lively the paintings still are, how incredibly consummate the physicality of the paint techniques remains, was undeniable. 

In a time when we carry thousands of images on our phones, it’s a powerful reminder of the value of seeing the real thing when you get the chance.  

Grace Mitiskas’ favourite painting, View of the Seine at Herblay , Paul Signac , 1889 oil on canvas  

“Signac’s skilful use of pointillism tiny, planned dots of pure colour that blend together into a bright, shimmering scene when seen from a distance is what pulled me in the most. I also love how Signac has used a variety of brushstrokes to enhance the different textures and bring an energy through the artwork. The Seine flows slowly through the painting, mirroring the soft sky and the riverbanks’ peaceful stillness.”

Lily Hu’s favourite painting, Morning sunlight on the snow, Éragny-sur-Epte. Camille Pissarro, 1895, oil on canvas, 82.3 x 61.6 cm  

“I chose Camille Pissarro’s Morning Sunlight on the Snow, Éragny-sur-Epte as my favourite artwork because it captures a quiet, magical moment in nature. The soft sunlight touching the snow creates a warm glow, contrasting beautifully with the cool shadows… This artwork reminds me to find joy in small, quiet moments, and that’s why it stays with me.”