Monet's Garden at Giverny

Impressionist leader Claude Monet is renowned as an artist, but did you know that he was also a passionate gardener? In fact, the gardens of his home at Giverny (restored after a long period of neglect and opened to the public in 1990) were the inspiration for many of his paintings. Viewers will see the Main Gardens as they change throughout the seasons; visit the Paint Box Beds, where Monet experimented with various palettes of color; and survey the Water Gardens, famous not only for the water lilies but important for the many plants that reflected Monet's interest in Japanese art and design. Gardeners, artists and family members provide commentary on the gardens both as inspiration and as botanical wonders, giving us insights into Monet's life and work--including a moving segment devoted to his failing eyesight, his recovery and the new phase of action painting that ensued. However, the real star here is the gardens, photographed in all their ravishing beauty. Art buffs will surely want to see this, but anyone who loves gardens will enjoy this beautiful, comprehensive tour of a unique and splendid place. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Reed)