In the 19th century and turn of the century Europe was regarded as a key element of Education of American Artists and wealthy families. They came to copy and study the old masters.  The American painters who painted were graduated from prestigious school such as National Academy of Design, Art Students League, the Cowles Art School, the Pennsylvania Academy and the Chicago Academy of Design. In Paris they study at Academie Julien, Academie Calorossi, and the Academy of la Grande Chaumiere  They found their inspiration from Puvis de Chavannes, Coutures, Bougereau, Gerome, Canabel.  The most tenuous studied at Ecole des Beaux Arts.
Carolus Duran attracted artist such as Will Low, Caroll Beckwith, Sargent, Theodore Robinson but also Theodore Earl Butler.  Their friendship drove them to Giverny.  Carolus Duran and Claude Monet were the driving force behind the American colony of Giverny. Williard Mertcalf  discover Giverny after visiting his friend, the French painter Coquand who lived in Fourges.  Ferninand Deconchy introduced Robinson to Claude Monet.  Segant introduced Radimsky to Claude Monet.
Claude Monet in 1883 settled in Giverny. It appreciates the softness of the landscapes and the particular light of this countryside. Although the painter did not encourage them to follow it, many artists and American students remained in Giverny; they stayed at the Hotel Baudy.  Claude Monet was happy to talk about painting and gave advice to John Leslie Breck, Blanche Hoschede Monet, Theodore Earl Butler and Lilla Cabot Perry. However due to the increasing number of new artist Claude Monet needed to control their visit.  He even thought leaving Giverny, after all he came in Giverny to find peace ans inspiration. The majority of American returned to their homeland bringing back with them a new style. Some invested in houses and the small village became a vacation resort for American artists.