I am a big fan of Impressionism and the National Gallery of Art has a lovely collection. The exhibition of Caillebotte's masterpieces takes their place in the art world to the next level. I will admit not knowing much about Gustave Caillebotte when I walked into the exhibition halls. However, I indeed walked out with great admiration of his work.
Caillebotte is an interesting character as art to him was a passionate interest. Having come from a wealthier background, he never really needed to sell his works so his role within the Impressionist movement is somewhat hidden. He was friends with Edgar Degas and Auguste Renoir who both encouraged his artistic endeavors. One of Caillebotte’s most famous works - depicting shirtless laborers finishing a wood floor - became one of the sensations of the second Impressionist show in 1876.
Gustave Caillebotte: The Painter's Eye is on display until October 4, 2015 at West Building Main Floor.