Sunshine and Art: Columbia to Showcase French Moderns Exhibition This Fall

Sunshine Awaits as Columbia Prepares for a French Modern Art Extravaganza

Columbia residents, brace yourselves for a delightful blend of cultural flair and abundant sunshine! With temperatures expected to reach a pleasant 85°F this Saturday, September 10, it’s the perfect day to head outdoors and soak in the artistry that our beautiful city has to offer. Wind coming in from the east-northeast at 5 to 10 mph means the weather will be just delightful, while a low of 64°F at night invites you to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.

The Upcoming Exhibition: French Moderns

One of the most exciting events is just around the corner! On October 5, the Columbia Museum of Art will unveil the much-anticipated exhibition, French Moderns: Monet to Matisse, 1850 – 1950. Organized by the Brooklyn Museum, this exhibition showcases over 50 stunning works from the museum’s noteworthy collection, and we’re thrilled to have it right here in Columbia.

A Glimpse into a Transformative Era

The period spanning from 1848 to the end of World War II was a vibrant time of change in France, marked by bold social, intellectual, and political movements. As Paris became the heart of the art world, artists embarked on exciting explorations of style and technique. French Moderns spotlights the transformative spirit of this era, featuring a variety of art movements such as Realism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Symbolism, Fauvism, Cubism, and Surrealism.

Visitors can look forward to works by some of the biggest names in art history, including Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, Henri Matisse, Marc Chagall, and many others. Imagine viewing Monet’s Houses of Parliament, Sunlight Effect, painted in 1903, capturing the essence of that glorious interplay between light and structure—what a treat!

Get Ready for the French Moderns Preview Party!

Kicking off the festivities, the museum is hosting a special preview party on Friday, October 4, to celebrate the exhibition’s debut. This is a fantastic opportunity for art lovers and community members to gather, enjoy a glass of wine, and preview these incredible works of art before they are officially opened to the public. Tickets went on sale on September 6, and we highly recommend snagging yours soon, as this is bound to be an event you won’t want to miss!

An Invitation to Experience Art Like Never Before

As CMA Senior Curator Michael Neumeister puts it, “It is rare for works with this degree of importance and quality to travel outside of major institutions.” This is truly an exceptional moment for our community, as we get the chance to witness iconic masterworks that have shaped the landscape of modern art. The exhibition will be running through January 5, 2024, giving everyone ample time to experience these stunning pieces.

Final Thoughts: Art Meets Community

So, get ready, Columbia! With the sunshine beckoning and the art scene heating up, the coming weeks promise a fantastic blend of beauty, culture, and community spirit. Mark your calendars and gather your friends and family – you won’t want to miss this opportunity to rediscover the power of art and the joy of togetherness!

Remember to enjoy the sunny days ahead, and let’s celebrate the arts in Columbia!