Elizabeth Murray presents 'Monet's Passion' The Gardens of Giverny March 30, 2011

Join us for a special opportunity to hear Elizabeth Murray speak and see the presentation of photographs and art inspired by her many years spent at Giverny.

The great Impressionist painter Claude Monet bought a house and garden in Giverny, a small Norman village on the Seine not far from Paris; he set himself to the task of giving nature everything he needed to produce an abundance of brilliant blooms and greenery throughout the extensive grounds, which included his famous lily pond. Renowned in Monet's lifetime, the extraordinary gardens grew shabby and sad after his death. Photographer and expert gardener Elizabeth Murray helped to restore the Giverny gardens: the water lily pond, the Grand Allee, and the tulip beds in front of Monet's house. Giverny gardens have been open to the public since 1980.

Elizabeth will discuss Monet's color theories, design elements, and use of light and shade, as well as, the development and maintenance of Monet's estate. Elizabeth uses the beauty of her photographic images, personal stories, garden metaphors, and warm humor to inspire the imagination of the attendee to connect with what has heart and meaning. Her enchanting photographs capture all of the charm and vivid color of Monet's inspiring gardens at Giverny, sometimes referred to as his "living canvas."

She is perhaps best known for her work helping to restore Monet's gardens and photographing them for 25 years. Elizabeth had the unique experience of living at Giverny for a year, working in the gardens in exchange for her room and board. Her photos have traveled with Monet's paintings to eight museums, and are published annually in calendars. This presentation presents ideas, inspiration, and insights into the painter's gardens from her new 20th Anniversary edition of her book Monet's Passion. For more information about Elizabeth Murray's publications, photography, and art go to: www.elizabethmurray.com.

Official Website: http://www.gamblegarden.org