Musée d'Orsay: Paris 1874 Inventing Impressionism

150 years ago, on April 15, 1874, the first impressionist exhibition opened in Paris. “Hungry for independence”, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Morisot, Pissarro, Sisley and Cézanne finally decided to free themselves from the rules by holding their own exhibition, outside official channels: impressionism was born.

To celebrate this anniversary, Musée d’Orsay is presenting some 130 works and bringing a fresh eye to bear on this key date, regarded as the day that launched the avant-gardes.

What exactly happened in Paris in that spring of 1874, and what sense should we make today of an exhibition that has become legendary? This exhibition seeks to trace the advent of an artistic movement that emerged in a rapidly changing world.

You'll also get access to the permanent and all temporary exhibitions with your ticket. Feel the rush of the wind, smell the fresh forest air, and listen to the symphony of wilderness.