Edgar Degas was one of the founders of Impressionism although he rejected the term and preferred to be called a realist. His nudes offer the fullest expression of the fascination with human form. Degas’s nudes demonstrate his meticulous study of anatomy and movement, and his attention to the grace and elegance of the body.

I just caught the Monet/Lichtenstein exhibit at the LACMA. You get to see 4 of Monet’s famous Rouen Cathedral paintings next to 4 paintings by Lichtenstein interpreting-appropriating the same subject and theme. This was an unexpected surprise (but try explaining the why of it to your 4 year old daughter, as I did). The Monet paintings are seminal in the history of impressionist art. And Lichenstein’s take on them is pure Pop Art.