Category Archives: Impressionism

Arles in the South of France (Art & Travel)

In a visit to Arles France, one can experience the spirit of van Gogh and the power of ancient Rome! Our Viking cruise was perfect to just walk ashore while we lived on the river!

Race Horses in Art: Kentucky Derby Runs Again (Degas)

Known for his renditions of ballet dancers, Edgar Degas’ paintings of race horses in this week’s blog honor the famed Kentucky Derby which historically runs the 1st Saturday in May. His race horses reveal the same impressionistic style as his dancers, and his unique “snapshot” compositions. Learn more in this week’s blog discussion.

Film Discussion: Midnight in Paris (Paris, France)

Paris! The film “Midnight in Paris” captures the allure and enticement of the city, past and present…Belle Epoch, to Roaring 20s to today. For lovers of art, literature and travel, it is a treasure trove to watch, again and again! Read my discussion in this blog.

No Masks Required! No Social Distancing in Art! Le Moulin de la Galette (Renoir)

No social distancing; no masks required! Except for the fashions, this could be a modern club scene today–much to the chagrin of the CDC! Renoir was one Impressionist who often turned to Paris nightlife for his subjects, such as this one in the Montmartre District: La Moulin de la Galette. Travel Tip: The Montmartre area of Paris has much to offer–Food, art, architecture, entertainment, ambiance–but be wary of the time of day/night that you visit!

Sunflowers – in Art & Life (Van Gogh & O’Keeffe)

Sunflowers seem to be exceptionally huge this year, at least in Minnesota and Wisconsin! Sunflowers are not really a subject worth of deep thoughts–they are just bright and make us smile! Van Gogh and O’Keeffe both have great renditions of sunflowers!

Colors of Autumn–& Cataracts – in Art & Life! (Monet & My Grandma)

Famous Art for the Pandemic – & Life Update 03 July 2025: This post was initially published during the 2020/2021 COVID pandemic. As an art history professor, world traveler and lover of great art and art museums, I set out to connect famous art with what was going on in the world around us. FirstContinue reading “Colors of Autumn–& Cataracts – in Art & Life! (Monet & My Grandma)”

The Thinker. . . and the Start of School! Art & Life (Rodin)

As we approach another school year (September 2020), Rodin’s famous sculpture “The Thinker” comes to mind to symbolize what one should be doing in school! But…did you know that there is more than one “The Thinker?” And in different sizes? And out of different materials? After you read my post, you can feel a bit more culturally literate on this iconic sculpture!

4th of July = Fireworks. . . or not?? Art & Life (Whistler)

To celebrate the fireworks that we may NOT be seeing this 4th of July due to COVID-19 restrictions, I’m sharing an oil painting of a fireworks display on a foggy night in London by a well-known American artist, Whistler. I enjoy this painting because it reminds me the night sky just as the fireworks are dissolving into the atmosphere.

Pandemic Delight: Patio Dining in Art & Life (Renoir)

Local suburbs are helping restaurants stay afloat during the pandemic by allowing them to carve out patios on sidewalks and streets to increase seating capacity. I love dining in outdoor cafes; it makes me feel very “European” even if I am in a local café. Renoir’s Luncheon of the Boating Party is one such place!