A rare Monet masterpiece is now on display in Lancashire with free admission.
The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil, painted in 1872, has gone on show at Blackpool’s Grundy Art Gallery as part of the National Gallery’s Masterpiece Tour 2025–2027.
The prestigious loan marks the first time the work has been exhibited in the North West.
Paulette Brien, curator at Grundy Art Gallery, said: "The presentation of the Monet on loan from National Gallery shows Grundy’s determination to celebrate the very best of art and culture, and to make that accessible to residents and visitors alike.
"It’s also testament to our collaborative working with local, regional and national partners and evidence of Grundy’s ambition."
The painting is part of a series Monet created in Argenteuil in 1872, a period seen as pivotal in the development of Impressionism.
It arrived at the gallery following a special preview event on March 27, attended by local dignitaries, cultural leaders and invited guests.
The work went on public display the following day.
Grundy was selected from more than 30 UK venues to be one of just four hosts on the Masterpiece Tour.
The National Gallery has described the work as a carefully chosen work from its collection, with other significant artworks set to follow during the three-year touring programme.
Claude Monet’s The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil (1872) depicts a peaceful winter scene along the Seine.
The painting contrasts the calm of nature with signs of encroaching industrial life and showcases Monet’s distinctive style during a transformative phase in his career.
Per Rumberg, the Jacob Rothschild head of the curatorial department at the National Gallery, said: "The National Gallery’s collection belongs to everyone, everywhere.
"We are very proud to collaborate with Grundy Art Gallery as part of the Masterpiece Tour.
"Art speaks differently in different places and we are excited to see Monet’s The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil in Blackpool."
The exhibition builds on Grundy Art Gallery’s track record of bringing works by major artists to the town, including L. S. Lowry, J. M. W. Turner, Roy Lichtenstein, Louise Bourgeois, Tracey Emin and Grayson Perry.
Councillor Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council and cabinet member for tourism, arts and culture, said: "This isn’t just about one extraordinary painting - it’s about what it represents.
"Bringing a work of this significance to Blackpool shows that world-class culture can thrive in places people might not expect.
"It’s about opening up access, inspiring pride in our town, and giving residents and visitors the opportunity to experience something truly special on their doorstep."
The painting has inspired outreach programmes and creative responses from young people in Blackpool.
Through a partnership with artist Kelly Jayne Jones, young people from The Magic Club have created a sound piece influenced by the themes and atmosphere of Monet’s work.
The gallery is also inviting all Blackpool schools to visit the painting, and will host a school exhibition following interactive workshops inspired by the artwork.
The exhibition is free to the public and will remain on display until June 13.
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Claude Monet’s The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil (1872) is on public view at Grundy Art Gallery, Queen Street, Blackpool, as part of the National Gallery Masterpiece Tour 2025–2027.
The gallery is open from 10am to 4.20pm, Tuesday to Saturday.
It is closed on Sundays, Mondays and bank holidays. Admission is free.
Further information is available at www.thegrundy.org or by calling 01253 478170.
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