French Impressionism Returns to Melbourne: A Second Chance for a First Impression
Melbourne Winter Masterpieces at NGV International, 6 June – 5 October 2025
If you missed it the first time, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Back in 2021, the National Gallery of Victoria opened a much-anticipated exhibition of French Impressionist art… and then closed its doors almost immediately due to lockdowns. Fast forward to 2025, and we’re getting a rare second chance to enjoy one of the most beloved art movements in history—right here in Melbourne.
French Impressionism returns to NGV International this winter as part of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series. And whether you’re a lifelong art lover or just curious about Monet’s waterlilies, this is an exhibition that speaks to all of us who’ve lived through change, appreciate beauty in the everyday, and perhaps enjoy a good stroll through a gallery on a crisp winter morning.
French Impressionism: NGV Winter Masterpieces
A Feast for the Eyes—and the Soul
More than 100 masterpieces from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston are making the journey to Melbourne, including works by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Camille Pissarro, Berthe Morisot, and Mary Cassatt. You’ll see lush gardens, sun-dappled coastlines, and quiet domestic scenes—all captured in the soft, shimmering light that made Impressionism so revolutionary.
And yes, there’s a whole room dedicated to Monet. Sixteen of his paintings, displayed together in a single breathtaking gallery, will transport you from Giverny to the Mediterranean without needing your passport.
Familiar Names, Fresh Perspectives
This time around, the exhibition goes beyond the brushwork. Letters, journals, and writings from the artists themselves give us a glimpse into their lives—the friendships, rivalries, and bold decisions that shaped a new way of seeing the world. There’s even a special focus on the early influences on Monet, like Eugène Boudin and the Barbizon School, whose love of painting outdoors helped birth a movement.
Several works have never been seen in Australia before, including a striking self-portrait by Victorine Meurent—better known as Manet’s muse but finally recognised as a gifted artist in her own right—and The Garlic Seller by Jean-François Raffaëlli, who painted scenes from Paris’s outer suburbs long before they were fashionable.
Perfect for a Midweek Treat
With its accessible location on St Kilda Road and extensive public transport options, NGV International is easy to get to—especially with a Seniors Myki in your pocket. If your knees aren’t what they used to be, rest assured: there’s plenty of seating throughout the gallery, lifts between floors, and friendly staff on hand if you need help.
And if you’re the type who likes to make a day of it, there’s a café on-site and plenty of spots nearby for lunch or a cuppa afterwards. Why not plan a visit with a friend, your book club, or even your grandkids? Impressionist art has a way of charming every generation.
A Cultural Event Worth the Wait
French Impressionism runs from 6 June to 5 October 2025—plenty of time to plan your visit, and maybe even return for a second look. It’s a chance to see these extraordinary paintings in person, reflect on what they meant in their time, and consider what they still say to us today.
So if you missed your first impression, here’s your second chance. And if you saw it back in 2021—well, like any good painting, it’s worth another look.
Tidbits for Your Visit:
- Seniors Card holders receive discounted exhibition entry, book online or at the desk;
- Quiet times are generally best on weekdays before 12pm;
- Enjoy an easy lunch or drink from the cafe;
- Other dining options include the Garden Restaurant or Tea Rooms;
- Plan a visit to the nearby NGV Australia as well, but you might need another whole day for this.
NGV Accessibility
- Ramp access, lifts and accessible toilets;
- Large print guides, hearing loops and audio guides are available;
- Read more about visiting NGV International here;
- Located 500 metres from Flinders St Station, with buses and trams stopping nearby;
- Various parking facilities are close by.
NGV International
180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006
(03) 8620 2222 https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/
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