Artists for Kids
Marvelous Matisse
(Left is one of his most famous works, "The Joy of Life")



Known as the greatest colorist of the twentieth century, Henri Matisse was a painter and sculptor recognized internationally for his use of color, expressiveness and unique form. He was about 20 years old and recovering from appendicitis when his mother bought him art supplies to keep him busy as he recuperated. He refers to this time as discovering "a kind of paradise.” Within two years, he left his legal career to pursue art. His early works were influenced by post-Impressionist Paul Cezanne, in particular. Matisse had famous friends, too, including Pablo Picasso, a fellow modern art pioneer.

What kids can learn from Matisse?

(Art for Kids)
Matisse created colorful pictures that helped show how he was feeling. He also liked to use scissors and cut out a wide variety of shapes in all sizes and would make collages with them. Matisse was inspired by nature.

There are many ways to promote creativity in children. Make sure they get outside to gain an appreciation for nature, just as Matisse did. Children can enjoy the idea of Matisse’s shape collages by experimenting with Abrakadoodle’s Matisse Artist widget. Widgetbox™ helps people express, connect, create and inform using web widgets that can be easily shared and distributed anywhere on the web. The best part is: it's free! Visit Matisse Artist and check out other inventive applications at http://www.widgetbox.com/widget/MatisseArtist


Kids can also use colorful paper or create their own colorful designs on white paper and cut out interesting shapes in all sizes. They can use these cut-outs to make a collage or a card with interesting overlaps or with white space as they envision it. Encourage children to express their emotions using color, shapes and style. Perhaps they will find the comfort that Matisse did when he made art in his own style!