Green Park in London 1871

Claude Monet made this painting of Green Park in London using oil on canvas. Monet was fascinated with capturing light, and oil paint allowed him to do so with quick, expressive brushstrokes. Look closely, and you'll see how the materiality of the paint itself contributes to the scene. Its texture and weight mimics the density of the grass and the thickness of the atmosphere. Monet skillfully manipulates the fluidity of the paint, building up layers to create depth and capture the fleeting moment. But beyond its surface, the painting hints at broader social issues. Monet’s style reflects the rise of industrialization, where he sought to capture the rapid pace of modern life and the changing urban landscape. The painting’s loose brushwork seems at odds with the highly-structured, formal aspects of London's public spaces. Ultimately, “Green Park in London” reminds us that even a seemingly simple landscape painting is deeply rooted in the materials, making, and context of its creation, blurring the lines between art and the wider world.