She continued: “Art of this significance – masterpieces – should be accessible to everyone, and bringing works like this to the town helps break down barriers, ensuring that people of all ages and backgrounds can experience internationally celebrated culture without needing to travel to London or Manchester.
“It also challenges outdated perceptions of Blackpool, showcasing our town as a place where culture, creativity and ambition thrive.
“We’re all thrilled that so many people, young and old and from near and far, have been to see the Monet painting and felt inspired by it.”
More than 600 children from 10 primary and secondary schools have visited as part of a special programme, touring the gallery, viewing the painting and learning more about the prolific artist who died in 1926.
The work depicts a riverside scene near the town of Argenteuil where Monet moved in 1871, and its display in the Grundy follows exhibitions of art by LS Lowry and Roy Lichtenstein.
The exhibition ends on 13 June.