A remarkable exhibition featuring one hundred of the world’s finest Impressionist paintings is set to open at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). This collection, on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, includes masterpieces from renowned 19th-century artists such as Degas, Morisot, Cassatt, and Van Gogh.
Originally planned for an earlier date, the exhibition had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has now been re-established, bringing a wealth of art history to Melbourne. This arrangement allows visitors to immerse themselves in artworks that previously graced the homes of affluent Boston residents, with the gallery’s interiors designed to evoke the opulent settings of these original collectors.
Dr Katie Hanson from the Boston Museum of Fine Arts emphasised the immersive nature of the exhibition, aiming to transport visitors to a different time and place through its presentation. The NGV is gearing up for another successful run, having recently attracted over half a million visitors for its record-breaking Kusama exhibition. There are high hopes that this unique showcase of Impressionism will also draw large crowds.
Tourism Minister Steve Dimopoulos highlighted the accessibility of this event, noting that residents of Victoria can enjoy world-class art without the need for international travel—just a short train ride to the NGV is all that is needed. The exhibition is expected to continue drawing in enthusiasts until October, making it a must-see for art lovers in the region.