Maryland State Wire

On February 9, the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) will inaugurate an exhibition examining the impact of smog on European modernist art. Titled "Air Quality: The Influence of Smog on European Modernism," the exhibition features works by artists such as Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, and James McNeill Whistler. It aims to explore how pollution in cities like London and Paris influenced their artistic practices.

Dr. Asma Naeem, BMA’s Dorothy Wagner Wallis Director, stated, “Air Quality offers an intriguing look at the significant influence of environment on the work of several renowned artists at the turn of the 20th century.” She noted that smog and industrialization played a crucial role in shaping European Modernist art. The exhibition encourages reflection on how environmental factors have historically impacted creative production.

The exhibition will present scientific data on air quality during the time these artworks were created. For instance, when Monet painted "Waterloo Bridge (Sunlight Effect with Smoke)" in 1903, London's air contained around 570 micrograms per cubic meter of particulates—over twice today's hazardous level according to WHO standards.

The exhibition contrasts Monet's experience with that of Matisse, who developed his vibrant palette after leaving Paris for the Mediterranean coast. This transition is illustrated through paintings like "The Dam at Pont Neuf" (1896) and "The Maintenon Viaduct" (1918).

Curated by Dr. Kevin Tervala, BMA Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown Chief Curator, the exhibition will be displayed in two phases from February 9 to August 3, 2025, and from August 13, 2025, to February 22, 2026. It is part of BMA’s Turn Again to the Earth initiative focused on environmental issues.

The initiative receives support from organizations including the Eileen Harris Norton Foundation and Johns Hopkins University & Medicine.

Founded in 1914, BMA houses over 97,000 objects and holds significant collections including works by Matisse. Located near Johns Hopkins University’s main campus, it offers free general admission to encourage public engagement with art.