Exhibition "I Spend My Life Painting" Musée d'Orsay from September 30, 2026 to January 24, 2027

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Discover « I Spend My Life Painting » at the Musée d’Orsay, an exhibition dedicated to Claude Monet. Through five works that have been studied or restored, along with several letters, immerse yourself in his artistic world, his research into light and landscapes, and the choices that shaped his pictorial work.

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€17.50

Exhibition

Admission to permanent collections and exhibitions

Exhibition dedicated to Claude Monet
September 30, 2026 – January 24, 2027
5 paintings studied or restored
Discover Monet’s creative process
Light, landscapes, and seasonal variations
Display of letters by the artist
Musée d’Orsay, Level 5
Late-night opening on Thursdays until 9:45 PM

€17.50

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What to expect

From September 30, 2026, to January 24, 2027, the Musée d’Orsay celebrates Claude Monet with "Je passe ma vie à peindre" (I Spend My Life Painting), an exhibition trail specially designed around one of Impressionism’s most iconic artists. Located on Level 5 of the museum—within the galleries dedicated to Impressionism and Neo-Impressionism—this presentation invites visitors to view the painter’s work from a fresh perspective.

More than just a gathering of famous paintings, this exhibition explores how Monet constructed his works, deliberated on his artistic choices, and sought to translate his impressions of landscapes and shifting light. Five recently studied or restored paintings form the core of this experience, complemented by letters that shed further light on his artistic practice and world.

"Je passe ma vie à peindre": An immersion into the world of Claude Monet at the Musée d’Orsay

An exhibition dedicated to Claude Monet

Claude Monet holds a pivotal place in the history of French painting and the evolution of Impressionism. Yet, behind the instantly recognizable images of his landscapes lies a meticulous process of observation, experimentation, and artistic decision-making.

"Je passe ma vie à peindre" offers a chance to focus on this aspect of the painter's work. The exhibition traces his career from its early decades through to the turn of the century, revealing how Monet gradually sought to capture his emotional response to the landscape.

Plein-air (outdoor) painting plays a key role in this artistic inquiry. Nature’s variations, weather conditions, light, and the changing landscape all became subjects of observation for the artist. Visitors gain insight into the fact that the apparent spontaneity of certain works conceals a profound artistic exploration. ### Five key works at the heart of the exhibition

A major highlight of this exhibition is the spotlight it places on five paintings that have recently undergone study or restoration. Their inclusion offers a fresh perspective on Monet’s work, allowing visitors to explore their history from both artistic and technical angles.

Among the featured works is The Magpie (1868–1869), part of the Musée d’Orsay’s collection since its acquisition in 1984. This painting exemplifies Monet’s fascination with landscapes and the effects of light, while also revealing the artist’s process of constructing an image.

Other works evoke vastly different settings: the banks of the Seine, rough seas, spring landscapes, and winter scenes. These variations allow visitors to discover the diverse environments Monet engaged with in his painting.

The exhibition thus demonstrates how a single artist could observe widely differing atmospheres and seek, in each instance, to capture their unique sensory quality.

Gaining insight into Monet’s creative process

The exhibition goes beyond the mere aesthetic appreciation of the paintings; it also addresses the practical questions involved in their creation.

How does one compose a large-scale painting? How should a snowy landscape be depicted? How does one work on a large canvas outdoors in a garden? What role should figures play in a family scene? Should a painting be varnished, or is another finish preferable?

These questions reveal a more contemplative side of Monet, showing that his work was not driven solely by spontaneous inspiration. Each painting involved deliberate choices regarding composition, technique, and the method of translating the artist’s perceptions onto the canvas.

This approach makes the exhibition particularly compelling for those wishing to look beyond iconic Impressionist imagery and gain a deeper understanding of how a work of art is created. ### An exhibition trail in the heart of the Musée d’Orsay

"I Spend My Life Painting" takes place in a setting ideally suited to discovering Claude Monet: the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, specifically within the galleries dedicated to Impressionism and Neo-Impressionism.

The exhibition trail is located on Level 5, in Rooms 29 to 35. Visitors can thus explore the display amidst the collections dedicated to this pivotal period in art history.

The visit also offers the opportunity to enjoy the museum’s artistic atmosphere and place Monet’s works within the broader context of modern painting. For art enthusiasts and visitors alike looking to deepen their knowledge, this location is a genuine asset.

Opening hours to suit various schedules

The Musée d’Orsay welcomes visitors from 9:30 a.m. to 18:00 am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. On Thursdays, opening hours are extended until 9:45 pm, allowing for an evening visit.

The museum is closed on Mondays.

These extended hours allow visitors to plan their tour in various ways: a daytime cultural visit, a family outing, a stop at the museum during a stay in Paris, or an evening visit on Thursdays.

To ensure a stress-free visit, it is recommended to check the date and time associated with your chosen ticket before finalizing your booking.

Why book your ticket in advance?

Booking a ticket allows you to better organize your visit and plan exactly when you will go to the Musée d’Orsay. For a temporary exhibition dedicated to an artist as significant as Claude Monet, planning ahead is particularly practical if the visit is part of an already busy tourist or cultural itinerary.

The exhibition runs from September 30, 2026, to January 24, 2027. This limited timeframe is another good reason to plan your visit in advance; once the period ends, the exhibition will no longer be accessible in the same way.

Booking also makes it easier to choose a date that fits your schedule. For those traveling from afar, families, or groups, planning ahead can significantly simplify the day's arrangements.

A compelling experience for art lovers

While this exhibition naturally appeals to enthusiasts of Claude Monet and Impressionism, it also attracts visitors who wish to discover the artist from a new perspective.

Those already familiar with Monet’s work will appreciate the insights into the study and restoration of the paintings. Meanwhile, less knowledgeable visitors can enjoy an accessible introduction to his artistic approach and creative process.

The inclusion of letters adds a documentary dimension to the exhibition. They complement the paintings and help place the artworks within the context of the artist's life and career. ### A visit to combine with exploring Paris

Housed in one of the capital’s major cultural landmarks, the Musée d’Orsay is a must-visit stop for a day dedicated to Parisian art and heritage. A visit to the "Je passe ma vie à peindre" (I Spend My Life Painting) exhibition can easily be incorporated into a broader itinerary in Paris.

The duration of the presentation and the museum's opening hours allow visitors to plan a full cultural day around the museum, while also enjoying the other spaces and collections available on-site.

For visitors wishing to dedicate a day to Impressionism, this exploration of Monet offers an excellent opportunity to deepen their understanding of this artistic period.

Prices and practical information

The standard timed-entry ticket is €16. The reduced-rate timed-entry ticket is €13, while an evening rate of €12 applies to certain visits.

Admission is free for visitors under 18. Visitors under 26 who are residents of the European Economic Area may also qualify for free admission, subject to applicable conditions.

Before booking, it is important to select the category that applies to your situation and to check the conditions associated with your chosen ticket.

The exhibition runs from September 30, 2026, to January 24, 2027, on Level 5 of the Musée d’Orsay (in galleries 29 to 35). Regular opening hours are 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with a late opening until 9:45 PM on Thursdays. The museum is closed on Mondays.

An opportunity to rediscover Monet

Ultimately, "Je passe ma vie à peindre" offers a fascinating perspective on the work of Claude Monet. Through five specific works—whether studied or restored—as well as letters and a presentation focused on his creative process, the exhibition invites visitors to take a fresh look at landscapes that might otherwise seem familiar. The visit offers deeper insight into the artist’s exploration of light, the seasons, landscapes, and sensory experience. It also reveals the many decisions involved in the creation of a painting.

Whether you are an Impressionism enthusiast, a fan of Claude Monet, or simply looking for a cultural outing in Paris, this exhibition offers a chance to discover a different facet of his work. By booking your ticket for the period between September 2026 and January 2027, you can plan your visit for the best possible experience and enjoy this temporary exhibition at the heart of the Musée d’Orsay.

Schedule

Available every day except on Monday
Schedule: 9:30 am

Prepare your group visit

Are you organizing an event for a group of more than 10 people?

Would you like to enjoy a cultural experience centered around Claude Monet? Organize your visit to the Musée d’Orsay and discover « I Spend My Life Painting ». Fill out our group form to prepare your visit and make the most of this artistic discovery.

Feel free to contact us at +33-1-48-74-05-10 for any requests.

Common questions

What is the "I Spend My Life Painting" exhibition?

"I Spend My Life Painting" is a special display dedicated to Claude Monet at the Musée d’Orsay. It features five paintings that have recently undergone study or restoration, accompanied by selected letters, to explore his artistic journey and working methods.

Can visitors under 18 access the display for free?

Yes. Admission is free for those under 18. However, the applicable conditions must be met during the visit.

Do young people under 26 get free admission?

Visitors under 26 who reside in the European Economic Area are eligible for free admission, in accordance with the Musée d’orsay’s pricing policy.

What does this display reveal about Claude Monet?

The display focuses in particular on Monet’s exploration of plein-air (outdoor) painting and his desire to capture a "sensation." It also highlights the thought processes and choices involved in the creation of his paintings.

How many paintings are specifically highlighted?

Five paintings that have recently undergone study or restoration form the core of the display. Presenting them allows for an exploration of various aspects of Monet’s work and artistic process.

Which specific Monet work is featured?

Among the highlighted works is The Magpie, painted between 1868 and 1869. This painting is part of the Musée d’Orsay’s collection, having been acquired by the museum in 1984.

What themes are explored through the artworks?

The works allow visitors to explore several subjects related to landscapes and nature: the banks of the Seine, rough seas, spring landscapes, and winter or snowy scenes.

Does the display explain how Monet worked?

Yes. The exhibition focuses on the painter’s creative process and the questions he may have asked himself while creating his works—particularly regarding composition, working conditions, and specific technical decisions.

Why are letters displayed alongside the paintings?

A selection of letters complements the artworks, shedding further light on Claude Monet and his artistic practice. They offer deeper insight into his work and his approach to painting.

Who was involved in developing this exhibition?

The exhibition is curated by Sylvie Patry, Chief Curator and Head of Celebrations for the Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie, and Anne Robbins, Curator of Paintings at the Musée d’Orsay. The project also benefits from the expertise of specialists in research and conservation.