A landmark exhibition titled ‘Monet, Van Gogh and the Masters of Modernism – Masterpieces from the Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea di Roma’ recently opened its doors to the public at the Meet You Museum in Beijing. Showcasing 47 authentic works from 36 acclaimed masters of modernism, the exhibition presents an unrivaled opportunity for art enthusiasts to witness these iconic pieces firsthand.
Spanning a time frame from the 1860s to the 1970s, the works on display form a bridge for cultural exchanges and shared learning. The exhibition offers viewers an in-depth exploration into the century-long evolution of modern Western art, tracing its many twists and turns.
Among the most notable pieces is Van Gogh‘s canvas painting, ‘L’Arlésienne (Portrait of Mme Ginoux).’ Central Academy of Fine Arts’ Wang Chunyuan stood captivated before this artwork, deeply moved by the “vigorous vitality” radiating from the seemingly tranquil painting.
Another highlight is Claude Monet‘s ‘Pink Water Lilies,’ an early work in one of Monet’s most representative series of paintings, ‘Water Lilies.’ As a leading figure of Impressionism, Monet’s work impeccably captures the interplay of light, shadow, and color reflected in the water, embodying the essence of this revolutionary art movement.
Stefano Silvani, director of the Asian exhibition business of Mondo Mostre in Italy, was particularly struck by Lucio Fontana’s hydropaint on canvas with cut work, ‘Spatial Concept, Waiting.’ Silvani likened the piece to Chinese calligraphy and remarked that the diverse works on display provide a snapshot of the century-long evolution of modern Western art.
The exhibition demonstrates how modern artists transcended the boundaries of media, experimenting with various forms of painting, sculpture, and photography to present a myriad of styles.
Wang Chunchen, professor at the Central Academy of Fine Arts and curator of the Meet You Museum, emphasized the rarity of such an opportunity. “People often travel overseas to appreciate global art and culture, but the most convenient approach is to bring foreign works to local communities. However, many collections and works can’t be moved, making it a precious opportunity when an important artwork is exhibited in another city or country. We should cherish this.”
The Meet You Museum, with six venues established in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Nanjing, and Hangzhou, has formed partnerships with hundreds of domestic and overseas cultural institutions. This includes several prestigious Italian museums and art galleries, further highlighting the global reach of this exhibition. The show is set to run until October 22, giving audiences ample time to experience this grand showcase of artistic brilliance.
READ MORE: