Monet's Masterpieces in Melbourne

What a treat we Melburnians have here on our doorstep. Impressionist painter Claude Monet has come to Melbourne (well not literally - he died in 1926!) for the annual National Gallery of Victoria International (St Kilda Road) Winter Masterpieces. And what an exhibition his Monet's Garden is. So much will be familiar to Monet fans and garden lovers in particular.

The bridge over the waterlily pond 1900 (NGV exhibition)

I was privileged to attend an after-the-public-viewing so the crowds were 'down'. But however up or down the crowds are it is an absolute must see particularly as it's not travelling elsewhere in  Australia. The majority of the works have come from The Musee Marmottan Monet in Paris and it runs until 8 September. This is going to be a blockbuster so avoid the queues by booking online

Waterlilies (Nymphéas) 1916–19 (NGV exhibition)

Claude Monet outside his house at Giverny c.1921 (NGV exhibition)

I love his comment - “My garden is my most beautiful masterpiece.” And it shows!

Have a quick preview of the key works here - I'm sure any doubts about whether to visit the exhibition will be removed and you will be 'persuaded' to visit! And the scene on arrival at the NGV is beautifully themed. Stone walls, gorgeous flowers, a Giverny cafe with blue and white gingham tablecloths and bright yellow bentwood chairs - and the food displayed on tiles - replicating his home kitchen. And do give yourself time to relax before leaving the exhibition with a film of the Giverny garden - it's wonderful.

The 'Giverny' Cafe with its 'stone walls' at the NGV

While you're in the Monet Mood - take a walk through the Fitzroy Gardens and visit the Observatory - I wrote about Melbourne's Petit Giverney 16 October 2012 - the current autumn 'floral' display is not quite as vibrant as the Spring display but with the Monet bridge it evokes the same feeling.

Spring in the Fitzroy Gardens Conservatory with its own Giverny Bridge

This is a must see exhibition. Take your time and savour the talent of this very productive Frenchman.

Bowen Cottage client comment: Thank you for providing such an excellent base for us. We could walk to the city and there were lots of good parks nearby for the dogs. It was a great place for Melbourne relatives, family and friends to catch up with us.