Inspired By | Henri Matisse
When times are tough, it can be encouraging to study people who have made the most of a hardship. Spending these past few weeks at home has made us think about Henri Matisse, who for the last 14 years of his life was practically housebound due to a succession of illnesses. Since Matisse wasn't able to go out and see the world, he decided to bring the world to himself, filling his walls with paper cut-outs depicting scenes ranging from snow flowers to dancers, and even a swimming pool that filled an entire room in his home. "You see as I am obliged to remain often in bed because of the state of my health, I have made a little garden all around me where I can walk... There are leaves, fruits, a bird," said Matisse. His optimism and surge of creative energy produced a brilliant final chapter in his long career.
Today, Matisse's cut-outs continue to inspire artists and designers such as Anna Kövecses, who describes her work as "digital collages, characterized by organic shapes, bright colors and an atmosphere of simple naivety." Matisse’s work also provides inspiration for great art projects to creatively pass time with your kids. And right now, you can view a retrospective of his work online via the Hayward Gallery. Last but not least, you can fill your walls with our selection of inspired works.
