Giverny the "American colony of Giverny"
In the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, many American artists and students were drawn to Paris to study and emulate the techniques of the old masters. One of the prominent figures attracting these American artists was Carolus-Duran. Notable Artists such as Will Hicock Low, J. Carroll Beckwith, John Singer Sargent, Theodore Robinson, and Theodore Earl Butler were among those who were influenced by Carolus-Duran and his teachings.
The friendship between Carolus-Duran and Claude Monet eventually led them and the American artists to Giverny, a small village in the Seine valley near Paris. Claude Monet had moved to Giverny in 1883, captivated by the exceptional light that bathed the countryside. The unique lighting and natural beauty of Giverny became a tremendous source of inspiration for Monet.
Monet willingly engaged in discussions about his artwork and offered guidance to other artists, including John Leslie Breck, Blanche Hoschedé Monet, Theodore Earl Butler, and Lilla Cabot Perry. Although Monet did not actively encourage them to follow his style, these American artists developed a habit of staying at the Hotel Baudy in Giverny. They embraced the Impressionist style and the practice of painting en plein air, which involved working outdoors directly from nature.
Over time, Giverny became an American artist colony, as more and more artists bought houses in the village. It became a popular destination for American artists seeking inspiration and further exploration of the Impressionist movement. Many of these artists returned to the United States, bringing the newfound style and techniques of Impressionism with them.
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