Gardens and the painters who immortalized them will take center stage at Plaza Cinema & Media Arts Center in Patchogue this month.
The on-screen presentation of “Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse" is set for Thursday, May 14, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 16, at 11 a.m.
“It’s spring so it’s the perfect time to think about gardens, and that’s one of the reasons we’re showing the film: ‘Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse.’ They were probably some of the most famous painters, particularly Monet, who ever painted gardens,” said Mary Lou Cohalan, vice president of the board and volunteer coordinator. She noted, "Monet's Water Lilies is one of the most iconic works of modern art."
The documentary, featuring a past exhibit at The Royal Academy of Arts in London, will also highlight the floral-inspired work of Van Gogh, Bonnard, Sorolla, Sargent and Pissarro, all largely from the turn of the century. “It’s as if you’re getting a curator’s tour of the exhibit,” she said.
While many are familiar with Monet and his gardens in France, Cohalan said the film is also about “how the colors of gardens inspire painters, whether you are an amateur or professional.”
Cohalan said the show is linked to the efforts of the local garden club, which created a beautiful garden right next to the theater at 20 Terry St.
Kelly-Ann Bohn, director of operations, said that Plaza Cinema & Media Arts Center is “more than movies. We try to focus on different experiences we can bring into the theater for the community,” including a spotlight on local artists and screenings for filmmakers.
For more information visit the website. Tickets are available online or at the door, priced at $6 for members, $7 for students and $10 for others.