Gust of Wind

Coup de Vent by Claude Monet

Description: "Coup de Vent" (translated as "Gust of Wind") by Claude Monet is a dynamic seascape painting that captures the power and movement of a sudden gust of wind over the sea. Created in 1881 during Monet's stay in Étretat, a coastal town in Normandy, France, this painting reflects Monet’s fascination with the changing moods of the sea and the effects of weather on the landscape. In "Coup de Vent," Monet uses loose, vigorous brushstrokes to depict the choppy waves and turbulent waters, with whitecaps forming under the force of the wind. The sky is filled with fast-moving clouds, painted in shades of gray and blue, suggesting an approaching storm. The painting conveys a sense of energy and movement, with the wind whipping through the scene and the sea responding in kind.

Monet’s palette in "Coup de Vent" is dominated by cool blues, greens, and grays, punctuated by brighter whites and hints of ochre to suggest the sun breaking through the clouds or reflecting off the water. The composition is balanced by the diagonal thrust of the waves, which directs the viewer's eye across the canvas, emphasizing the natural forces at play. Monet painted this scene en plein air, directly observing the effects of wind and weather on the sea, a hallmark of his impressionist style. The painting captures not only the physical appearance of the landscape but also the sensory experience of being in the midst of a gusty wind by the sea.

Claude Monet (1840–1926) was a leading figure in the Impressionist movement, known for his innovative approach to capturing fleeting moments in nature through light and color. "Coup de Vent" is an example of his dedication to portraying the changing conditions of the environment, emphasizing movement, light, and the atmospheric qualities of the scene. His works from this period are characterized by their spontaneity and attention to the effects of natural forces, illustrating his commitment to painting nature in its true, ever-changing form.

Details:

• Location and Date Created: Étretat, Normandy, France, 1881.
• Medium: Oil on canvas.
• Full Artwork Name: Coup de Vent by Claude Monet (translated: Gust of Wind).
• Artwork Style: Impressionism.
• Subject/Topic: A seascape depicting the effects of a gust of wind on the sea, capturing the dynamic interaction between the wind, waves, and sky.