Melbournians are now being offered the chance to spend their Friday nights in the garden of impressionist painter Claude Monet, or at least surrounded by its beauty in his art.

Waterlilies by Claude Monet (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

Friday Nights at Monet’s Garden is part of this year’s winter masterpieces exhibition at NGV International on St Kilda Road. Monet’s depictions of his garden at Giverny throughout his life are known as among his greatest works while the man himself is commonly referred to as the founder of the French impressionist movement. The artworks are visiting from the Musée Marmottan Monet Paris.

Monet’s Argenteuil (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

Each Friday night until the 6th September, entertainment, food and drinks, and a series of talks will be offered in the stunning setting of the NGV International, against the backdrop of Monet’s water lilies, ponds, willows and bridges. Tonight the festive atmosphere will be supplemented by Sydney-based electronica group Seekae, performing live. Additionally, the curator of the Asian Art Exhibition Space Wayne Crothers will be giving a speech, along with Better Homes and Gardens horticulturalist Graham Ross.

After tonight, only two more dates remain, featuring musicians Harmony and Jae Laffer. Bookings for Friday Nights at Monet’s Garden are essential. Tickets cost $28 and include entry to the exhibition itself. Bookings can be made through NGV International’s website.