Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies, 1899
Claude Monet
Metropolitan Museum of Art
 
Short strokes of paint come together to portray an impression of nature. Monet's source of inspiration was the bridge and pond at his Giverney home. Each of Monet's paintings attempts to capture the essence of nature as he perceived it in an innovative, controversial style.
 
In 1874, the "Anonymous Society of painters" opened an exhibition to unveil radical new artwork. Among the exhibitors were Renoir, Degas, Monet, and many other influential artists. They were all uninterested in fame; they wanted appreciation for the beauty of the pieces. Most critics dismissed the work considering it amateur. Street art has suffered a similar fate. Street artists are rebels who remain anonymous to create art. Their interest is to add beauty to the urban landscape. The Spray Can and Monet's most recognizable painting represent art's intrinsic beauty, separate from the artist's identity.