In a rare and momentous occasion, a stunning Monet masterpiece from the esteemed National Gallery is set to embark on a mysterious tour of four galleries across England. The painting in question is none other than the exquisite “Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil,” created by Monet in 1872. This captivating artwork will grace venues such as the Ferens Art Gallery in Hull, offering art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to marvel at its beauty.
Capturing a serene winter’s day along the banks of a river on the outskirts of Paris, this iconic piece of art is a testament to Monet’s unparalleled talent and vision. The upcoming tour, slated to commence in the autumn and extend throughout the next year, will also make stops at the Sainsbury Centre in Norwich, the South Shields Museum and Art Gallery, and the Grundy Art Gallery in Blackpool.
This occasion marks only the second time in two decades that this exquisite artwork will venture beyond the confines of the National Gallery in London, adding an air of exclusivity and anticipation to the event. As part of the grand exhibition, the Ferens Art Gallery will host a unique “multi-sensory immersive space,” specially curated to engage disabled and neurodivergent visitors through immersive experiences involving scents, sounds, and tactile works.
Expressing his excitement and gratitude for the esteemed partnership with the National Gallery, Councillor Rob Pritchard of Hull City Council remarked, “It is a great honor to be part of this prestigious collaboration, providing residents and visitors of Hull with the opportunity to experience such a significant piece of artwork up close and personal.”
Art enthusiasts and admirers of Monet’s work can mark their calendars for the anticipated display at the Ferens Art Gallery, scheduled to grace its halls for a three-month period starting from June 19 next year. The gallery will be the fourth stop on the National Gallery’s “Masterpiece” tour, which is set to kick off in Norwich in September, followed by engagements in South Shields starting January 2026 and Blackpool from March 2026.
Claude Monet, a pioneering figure in the realm of impressionism, left an indelible mark on the art world with iconic works such as his Water Lilies and Haystacks series. The enduring popularity of Monet’s masterpieces was exemplified in 2019 when a Haystacks painting from 1890 fetched a staggering $110.7 million at a Sotheby’s auction.
Commenting on the significance of the Masterpiece exhibitions, National Gallery Director Sir Gabriele Finaldi emphasized the institution’s commitment to bringing art to the masses. “The National Gallery’s collection belongs to all of us,” he affirmed. “It is our duty and privilege to safeguard these masterpieces and make them accessible to diverse audiences, transcending geographical boundaries.”
As the anticipation builds for this exceptional gallery tour, art enthusiasts and culture aficion
