*The Cliffs at Etretat (1885): These well-known cliffs, known as the "Elephant and the Needle" (Etretat in the Caux region of Normandy), were painted by Monet in a typical Impressionist style, complete with atmospheric conditions and the impact of light. Using distinct brushstrokes and brilliant colours, the illusion of motion on the sea is painstakingly constructed. This painting of the sinking sun demonstrates Monet's famed technique of layering colours while the first was still wet. *CLAUDE MONET (1845-1870) is one of the world's most famous painters, well-known today for his series of serene water lilies paintings, Claude Monet was instrumental in forging an entirely new direction for the world of art & impressionism. His distinctive use of colour, vision, and conformation would have a long influence on fine art, inspiring many great artists like Van Gogh.