Claude Monet's current exhibition at the Frankfurt Städel showcases not only his celebrated works but also highlights the absence of certain traditional subjects such as fishermen, children, and bathers. The exhibition delves into the artistic choices Monet made, particularly in selecting motifs that aligned more closely with a tourist's perspective, rather than just capturing the natural beauty of his surroundings. This approach reflects his innovative artistic vision and his intention to redefine landscape painting.

In discussion of Monet's technique, the contrast between his work and that of Gustave Courbet is noteworthy. Courbet depicted waves as dark, solid entities, whereas Monet approached them with a lighter palette, rendering them almost ephemeral. This difference in representation illustrates Monet's evolving style during a time when photography began to emerge, further emphasizing the importance of painted representation as a means to capture fleeting moments such as waves, which could not be effectively photographed at the time.

Ultimately, the exhibition is not just an exploration of Monet's techniques and preferences but serves as a commentary on the evolution of art in the face of new technologies like photography. By choosing to focus on particular elements of nature, Monet invites viewers to reconsider the traditional narratives surrounding landscape art and to appreciate the unique perspectives that artists can offer.