Win: A Trip to Melbourne To See the NGV’s Masterful Exhibition, French Impressionism

The names are legendary: Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas. And the artworks, even more so. But beyond the iconic brushstrokes lies a story that connects them all – one that unravels through more than 100 works in the National Gallery of Victoria’s Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition, French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. It’s a rare chance to see these treasures from Boston’s world-renowned collection in Australia – and now we’re giving you and a friend the chance to experience it for yourself.

Not a Melbourne local? Not a worry. Alongside a double pass to the exhibition, you’ll receive return flights from your nearest capital city and a night’s stay at the Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street, making this a getaway that’ll leave an impression.

French Impressionism features a vast collection of works by 19th-century masters, but it’s more than just a catalogue of classics (though 16 Monets in one room is not to be understated). The collection tells the narrative of how Impressionism sprouted and bloomed into the movement. Alongside household names, you’ll meet the artists who shaped and inspired them, such as Eugène Boudin, who convinced a young Monet to leave the studio and paint en plein air; Monet would later credit his success to Boudin’s advice.

The exhibition is spread across multiple ornately staged rooms that look plucked from old-world Boston, mimicking the mansions they sat in before being acquired by the MFA. The final circular gallery encompasses you with iconic works such as Monet’s Water Lilies and Grainstack (Snow Effect), echoing Paris’s Musée de l’Orangerie in scale and serenity.

It's a huge exhibition, so a pit-stop is recommended – and covered. The prize includes lunch for two at the NGV Garden Restaurant, which overlooks the gallery’s tranquil sculpture garden. The seasonal menu highlights fresh produce and pairs perfectly with a debrief about your favourite works.

As a memento from this ideal gallery day, you’ll also take home two copies of the NGV French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts Boston publication.

To enter, complete the form here to go in the draw. Terms and conditions apply. The competition closes on Thursday 18 September.

Broadsheet is a proud media partner of the NGV.