Why did monet paint water lilies?

Claude Monet painted water lilies as part of his fascination with the natural world and his desire to capture the changing effects of light and color. His garden in Giverny provided him with an idyllic setting, allowing him to explore impressionism through the reflections and movement of water. The series of water lily paintings also represented his shift towards abstraction, focusing more on the interplay of color and form than on realistic depiction. Ultimately, these works reflect Monet's deep emotional connection to his environment and his innovative artistic vision.