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In an age where the digital realm often overshadows tangible experiences, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, in collaboration with Renaissance Tours, offers a rare and exquisite opportunity to dive deep into the essence of French Impressionism. This initiative, marking the 150th anniversary of this revolutionary artistic movement, is not merely a tour but a vibrant celebration of creativity, history, and shared human experience.

The announcement of these tours has sent ripples of excitement through the art world. They promise an immersive journey into the heartlands that gave birth to Impressionism under the guidance of Julie Ewington, a figure synonymous with cultural wisdom and insight. Ewington, a revered independent writer, curator, and broadcaster, brings a depth of knowledge and passion poised to transform these travels into a journey of discovery and enlightenment.

French Impressionist Art Cruise With Tour Leader Julie Ewington 28 April – 8 May 2024 (11 days).

The French Impressionist Art Cruise, a meticulously curated 11-day voyage along the Seine from Paris to Normandy, stands out as a flagship offering. Participants will traverse the landscapes that inspired Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Camille Pissarro. It’s an odyssey that retraces the revolutionary steps of artists who once defied the conventional art norms of their time, armed with nothing but their palettes and visions. Ewington’s narrative brings to life the story of these rebels of the art world, whose quest for authenticity led them to capture the transient effects of light and colour with unprecedented fervour.

This journey involves observing and immersing oneself in the picturesque locales that fueled the Impressionists’ creativity. From the quaint village of Auvers-sur-Oise, where Van Gogh spent his final days, to the historic city of Rouen, immortalized by Monet’s cathedral series, each stop is a chapter in the story of Impressionism. The breathtaking cliffs of Étretat and the serene beauty of Honfleur’s port come alive, not just as subjects of famous artworks but as witnesses to history’s artistic fervour.

Giverny, the hallowed grounds where Monet painted his iconic water lilies, offers an intimate glimpse into the artist’s world. This tour segment is a testament to Impressionism’s enduring legacy, inviting participants to step into the gardens that have captured the imagination of art lovers worldwide.

Allure of the Côte ‘Azure With Tour Leader Julie Ewington 10-21 September 2024 (12 days).

For those drawn to the luminous charm of the Mediterranean, the Allure of the Côte d’Azur tour unveils a canvas where the azure sea meets the sky. This 12-day exploration delves into the vibrant landscapes that beckoned Matisse, Picasso, and other art world luminaries. It is an odyssey through time and creativity, exploring the nexus between nature’s beauty and artistic innovation.

The significance of these tours extends beyond the art; they celebrate shared experiences and lifelong friendships forged in the pursuit of beauty. Liz Gibson, the esteemed director of the AGNSW’s Cultural Tour Program, encapsulates the essence of this journey, highlighting its role in knitting a community of art aficionados bound by their love for exploration and understanding.

In embarking on these tours, participants are not merely spectators but active participants in a legacy of creativity that continues to inspire and challenge. The Art Gallery of New South Wales and Renaissance Tours invite you to be part of this extraordinary chapter in the story of French Impressionism to immerse yourself in the brilliance that changed the course of art history.

For more details, information and reservations, visit the Renaissance Tours 2024 Program Brochure here.