One of Monet’s most serene winter landscapes will travel across Britain as part of an ambitious project to bring national treasures to regional museums. The National Gallery has announced that “The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil” will visit four cities over the next two years, marking the first time the painting has left London in two decades.
The 1872 masterpiece will begin its journey at Norwich’s Sainsbury Centre before traveling to South Shields, Blackpool, and Hull. Each venue plans to present the work in unique contexts, from trauma-informed community projects to collaborations with contemporary artists.
“The National Gallery’s collection belongs to all of us,” says Director Sir Gabriele Finaldi. “It is part of our duty and our honour to look after these paintings and to bring them to where people are, not just expect them to come to us.”
The painting depicts a tranquil winter scene on the outskirts of Paris, showing Monet’s masterful handling of water reflections and his ability to capture intimate moments in nature. While Argenteuil was already becoming industrialized when Monet painted there, he chose to focus on the peaceful aspects of the riverside setting.
Each hosting venue has developed innovative approaches to displaying the work. The Sainsbury Centre will incorporate it into an exhibition exploring conflict and peace, while South Shields Museum will connect it to local landscapes. Blackpool’s Grundy Art Gallery plans to pair it with work by contemporary painter Louise Giovanelli, and Hull’s Ferens Art Gallery will create a multi-sensory experience designed with disabled and neurodivergent visitors.
The tour, supported by Hiscox insurance, builds on the success of previous National Gallery touring exhibitions, which have reached nearly 1.5 million people since 2014. This latest initiative marks the first time the Gallery has partnered with four venues simultaneously, reflecting an expanded commitment to sharing the national collection across the UK.
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