Henri Matisse

Date of Birth: December 31, 1869

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: November 3, 1954

Biography

Henri Matisse was a French artist, born on December 31, 1869, in Le Cateau-Cambrésis, France. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential painters of the 20th century and a leading figure in modern art. Matisse was originally trained in law before turning to art in his early twenties. His early work was influenced by the Post-Impressionist painters Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh. Matisse is best known for his use of color and his fluid, original draftsmanship. He was a leading figure in the Fauvism movement, which emphasized painterly qualities and strong color over the representational or realistic values retained by Impressionism. His work spanned over half a century, evolving from the flat, bright colors of Fauvism to the more fluid and organic forms of his later years. In addition to painting, Matisse was also a skilled draughtsman, printmaker, and sculptor. His later works, particularly his cut-out series, are celebrated for their innovation and vibrancy. Matisse remained active until his death on November 3, 1954, in Nice, France.

5 Interesting Facts about Henri Matisse

1. Henri Matisse initially studied law and worked as a court administrator before turning to art after a bout of appendicitis left him bedridden.

2. He founded the Fauvist movement along with André Derain, emphasizing bold, non-naturalistic colors.

3. Matisse’s “The Dance” (1910) is one of his most famous works and a prime example of his Fauvist style.

4. During World War II, Matisse remained in France and continued to produce art despite the Nazi occupation.

5. In his later years, Matisse turned to creating paper cut-outs, a technique that allowed him to continue creating despite his declining health.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henri Matisse

1. “Creativity takes courage.”

2. “There are always flowers for those who want to see them.”

3. “I don’t paint things. I only paint the difference between things.”

4. “What I dream of is an art of balance, of purity and serenity, devoid of troubling or depressing subject matter.”

5. “Exactitude is not truth.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Henri Matisse’s highest net worth achieved is not precisely documented, but his works have sold for millions of dollars at auction, reflecting his immense value and influence in the art world.

Children

Henri Matisse had three children: Marguerite Matisse (1894-1982), Jean Matisse (1899-1976), and Pierre Matisse (1900-1989). Pierre Matisse became a prominent art dealer in New York City, representing many well-known artists.