Introducing: Monet's Water Lilies

Erin Hanson recently embarked on a captivating journey through the heart of Monet's artistic universe. Her adventure took her from the bustling art museums of Paris to the serene gardens of Giverny, tracing the footsteps of Claude Monet himself.
Beginning in Paris, Erin immersed herself in Monet's masterpieces at the Musèe Marmottan Monet, Musèe de l'Orangerie, and Musèe d'Orsay. These renowned institutions provided a comprehensive view of Monet's artistic evolution, showcasing his iconic water lilies and other works.

From Paris, Erin took a river boat to Giverny, where she explored Monet's home and gardens. Here, surrounded by the landscapes that inspired some of Monet's most famous paintings, Erin gained a profound insight into the artist's creative process and the natural beauty that fueled his imagination.

Continuing her artistic pilgrimage, Erin visited Latour-Mariac, the historic water lily farm that supplied Monet with his water lilies and first inspired the artist to paint water lilies. Scroll down to read more about the story behind Monet's encounter with water lilies at the 1889 World Fair, which would later define his oeuvre.

Erin has now returned to her studio nestled in the heart of Oregon wine country and put brush to canvas. We invite you to enjoy her newest large-scale painting, "Monet's Lilies."

Watch the video of her creation here:

Continue scrolling to see the still shots of Erin's process as she painted this 72"x83" oil on canvas painting:

Monet's Lilies by Erin Hanson, 2024

Enjoy the entire French Collection here

Erin in Paris

Erin kicked off her French exploration in Paris, fully immersing herself in the world of Monet's masterpieces at the Musée Marmottan Monet, Musée de l'Orangerie, and Musée d'Orsay. These renowned institutions gave her a comprehensive view of Monet's artistic evolution, showcasing his iconic water lilies and other works.

(above) Erin Hanson in the Musèe l'Orangerie, Paris.

Water Lilies in  Giverny

In the late 1800s, Monet settled in Giverny, a quaint village nestled between Paris and the French coast. Over time, he meticulously designed and cultivated his gardens, which were not only an extension of Monet's artistic vision but also a source of endless inspiration. He carefully curated every aspect of the landscape, from the arrangement of flowers in vibrant colors to the serene water lily pond adorned with a Japanese bridge.

The water lily pond, in particular, became the centerpiece of Monet's later works, reflecting his fascination with light, color, and the ephemeral qualities of nature. His series of paintings depicting the water lilies and the bridge at different times of the day and seasons are iconic examples of his mastery in capturing the essence of the natural world.

Visiting Giverny allowed Erin Hanson to walk in Claude Monet's footsteps, experiencing firsthand the tranquil atmosphere and enchanting beauty that inspired some of art's most celebrated works. Here, Monet not only painted but also found solace and rejuvenation, surrounded by the flourishing gardens he lovingly tended.

Today, Monet's house and gardens in Giverny are preserved as a testament to his artistic genius and profound connection with nature. They continue to attract visitors from around the globe, offering a glimpse into the life and legacy of a visionary artist whose legacy endures through his timeless artworks and the enduring allure of Giverny itself.

(above) Erin at Monet's house and gardens in Giverny, France.

Latour-Marliac Water Lily Farm

The Latour-Marliac water lily farm holds a significant place in the history of art and horticulture, particularly concerning Claude Monet and the development of water lily cultivation.

Origins and Founding

The story of Latour-Marliac began in the late 19th century when Joseph Bory Latour-Marliac established the nursery in 1875 in Temple-sur-Lot, France. Initially, the nursery focused on growing hardy water lilies native to Europe.

Connection with Claude Monet

The nursery gained international renown following the 1889 World's Fair in Paris. It was here that Claude Monet first encountered the vibrant displays of exotic water lilies from Latour-Marliac. Monet was captivated by the diversity of colors and shapes of these aquatic plants, which would later inspire his iconic series of water lily paintings.

Innovation and Development

Joseph Bory Latour-Marliac was not only a nurseryman but also an innovator in water gardening. He actively hybridized water lilies, creating new varieties that were more vibrant and resilient than their wild counterparts. His efforts expanded the range of colors available and contributed to the popularity of water gardens in Europe and beyond.

Legacy

Latour-Marliac's legacy continues to thrive today. The nursery remains a leading authority on water lilies and aquatic plants, offering various cultivars that inspire gardeners, artists, and enthusiasts alike.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its horticultural contributions, Latour-Marliac's influence on art cannot be overstated. Monet's fascination with the water lilies from Latour-Marliac led to his extensive exploration of light and color in his later works, which are celebrated as some of the most iconic examples of Impressionist art.

In summary, the Latour-Marliac water lily farm stands as a testament to the intersection of art and nature, where the beauty of aquatic plants sparked the imagination of one of the greatest painters of all time, leaving an indelible mark on both horticulture and art history.

If you've enjoyed this discussion of water lilies, feel free to explore Erin Hanson's impressionist water lily paintings. You can find them here. You are also invited to explore the ever-updating collection of paintings inspired by Erin's journey to France by viewing the paintings online and by coming to the gallery for the collection release exhibition on Saturday, September 14th. 

You are invited to bask in the beauty and inspiration that Erin found among the water lilies in France!