Iconic works by legendary artists Monet, Renoir and Degas will dazzle Melbourne next year when the world-exclusive Melbourne Winter Masterpieces returns to the NGV - backed by the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks today joined NGV Director Tony Ellwood AM to announce the return of the French Impressionism exhibition, giving Victorians the chance to experience world renowned masterpieces that rarely leave their home institution.
Originally presented in 2021, the exhibition was cut short because of the pandemic. Now it's back in 2025 with a brand new exhibition design, giving Australian audiences a second chance to experience one of the most significant collections of French Impressionism to ever travel to Australia.
Developed and staged as a partnership between the NGV and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA) - an institution celebrated for its extensive collection of Impressionist works - this blockbuster exhibition will feature more than 100 iconic paintings, with some works never-before-seen in Australia.
From a breathtaking display of 19 canvases by Claude Monet traversing France, the Mediterranean and the artist's famed garden at Giverny, to an in-depth exploration of the career and works of Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Camille Pissarro, the exhibition will delight fans and newcomers of all ages.
Over the past 20 years, the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series has attracted more than seven million local, interstate and international visitors to Victoria and generated an economic impact to the state of close to $700 million. NGV's recent Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition Pharaoh attracted more than 336,000 visitors.
French Impressionism is part of a blockbuster pipeline of major events coming to Victoria in 2025, including Beetlejuice The Musical, Frida Kahlo: In her own image at Bendigo Art Gallery and the British & Irish Lions rugby tour.
French Impressionism will run from 6 June to 5 October 2025 at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Further information is available at ngv.melbourne.
As stated by Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks
"Our Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series brings world famous art to Victoria, giving local audiences the opportunity to see and experience masterpieces that rarely travel this far."
"Iconic, global exhibitions draw visitors from far and wide, injecting millions into our economy. French Impressionism is no exception, and we're pleased to give this extraordinary exhibition the run it deserves."
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"We continue to back major events that cement our reputation as a global cultural destination - we're bringing world renowned art to our shores, creating unforgettable experiences for people of all ages, and boosting our economy at the same time."
As stated by Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor
"This exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for our community to experience some of the world's most iconic art right here in Melbourne, showcasing the cultural richness that makes Victoria truly special."
As stated by NGV Director Tony Ellwood AM
"One of the core roles of the NGV as a public institution is to share art and culture with all Victorians - and we are delighted to be able to finally share the MFA Boston's important collection with local audiences."
"We are incredibly grateful to them for entrusting us with these extraordinary, historically important masterpieces."
