Claude Monet, a renowned French Impressionist painter, created a series of mesmerizing oil paintings of the Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament) during his visits to London between 1900-1905. These paintings all have the same point of view and size, showcasing Monet’s window at St Thomas’ Hospital overseeing the Thames River with its sunlight illuminating through the fog.
The subtitle “With the Sun Shining through Fog” used in all painting is reflective of Monet’s innovative use of light. Despite completing many paintings in his studio located in Giverny, he captured an envelope-like effect on canvas that showcased interactive-colored lights. The reflection created by everything visible was resolved entirely in light.
Monet’s series based on Houses Of Parliament is considered to be one of his supreme expressions as it aligns with his overall conception for art pieces. The style and approach showcase that nature synced with modern life can create masterpieces like this one that stand the test of time. Overall, Monet’s artwork brought out one element which depicts how powerful artistic expression could merge intrinsic human values and elements from nature into transformative artwork.
