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Blackpool's Monet shows 'culture can thrive in unexpected places'

The National Gallery, London The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil depicts a tranquil scene on a winter day on the outskirts of a small, suburban town, portraying two figures by the side of the River Seine.The National Gallery, London
The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil is on display at Grundy Art Gallery until June

The display of a masterpiece by the Impressionist painter Claude Monet in Blackpool "shows that world-class culture can thrive in places people might not expect", the council's leader has said.

The 1872 artwork The Petit Bras of the Seine at Argenteuil is now open to free viewings at the town's Grundy Art Gallery, where crowds attended a launch event on Friday.

Speaking at the venue, Blackpool Council leader Lynn Williams said: "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."

Every local school will be invited to view the work by the prolific French artist, who died in 1926.

Blackpool Council Scores of people stand in a Grundy Art Gallery room as they listen to a speech. Blackpool Council
Crowds attended a launch event at Grundy Art Gallery

The painting shows a riverside scene near the town of Argenteuil, where Monet moved in 1871.

It will be on display until 13 June as part of a tour organised by The National Gallery in London.

Per Rumberg, who heads its curatorial department, said "art speaks differently in different places", adding: "The National Gallery's collection belongs to everyone, everywhere."

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