Dance II (1910)
Henri Matisse, the trailblazer of Fauvism, faced discouragement early on. However, a significant turning point emerged when Gertrude Stein and her brother Leo Stein, prominent art collectors, took an interest in his groundbreaking style and purchased his paintings.
The Steins were renowned for their vast wealth and extensive art collection. They relished the company of artists, engaging in lively discussions over drinks, and were actively involved in buying and selling artworks. For artists like Matisse, catching the attention of the Stein family meant more than just financial success—it meant recognition and validation within the art world.
With the support of the Steins, Matisse's fortunes changed dramatically. He found himself enjoying the fruits of his labor, reveling in the pleasures of life, and capturing those joys in his vibrant and expressive paintings. It's a testament to how crucial support and patronage can be in an artist's journey to success. And yes, Matisse's newfound prosperity even led to a bit of lighthearted laughter—life imitating art, perhaps!
1906 The joy of life
For a period, Henri Matisse's paintings adorned the walls of the Stein family's living room, sparking considerable attention and discussion. It was during this time that Matisse came to realize the importance of innovation in attaining fame and fortune. Recognizing the challenge of finding fresh inspiration in Europe, he made a bold decision to journey to Algeria in North Africa in 1906.
The girl with green eyes (1908)
Algerian Woman (1909)
Harmony in Red (1908)
Immersed in the vibrant and intense colors of Algerian style patterns, Henri Matisse found himself captivated by African art and the principles of primitivism. In particular, he became deeply engaged in the process of simplifying lines and colors, a technique that became evident in his depictions of the nude form.
Nude (1907)
The blue nude (1908)
Indeed, at that pivotal moment, Pablo Picasso found himself exploring nude subjects and was notably influenced by Henri Matisse's studio practices. Picasso's groundbreaking work, "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," released in 1907, marked a departure from conventional nude representations. Instead of adhering to traditional forms, Picasso boldly simplified lines and colors, a technique he gleaned from Matisse's approach. This marked a significant shift in the trajectory of modern art, as both Matisse and Picasso pushed the boundaries of artistic expression in their own distinct ways.
Picasso, Les Demoiselles d'Avignon / Virgo of Avignon (1907)
As Picasso's fame soared with the release of "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," his works began to adorn the walls of the Stein family's living room, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the art world.
Meanwhile, Henri Matisse couldn't help but feel a pang of resentment towards Picasso, viewing him as an idea thief for his rapid rise to prominence. However, undeterred, Matisse delved deeper into the study of African primitivism.
In 1910, Matisse's dedication culminated in the creation of "The Dance," a masterpiece that showcased his mastery of simplified forms and vibrant colors inspired by African art. This iconic work served as a testament to Matisse's unwavering commitment to artistic exploration and innovation, establishing him as a formidable force in his own right within the realm of modern art.
1910 Dance Dance (II)
Indeed, there's a profound beauty in the simplicity of Matisse's "The Dance." One observer captured it perfectly by expressing how they could sense the joy of primitive life emanating from the figures dancing in the moonlight.
Matisse's intention to create a piece that appears deceptively simple yet evokes such depth of emotion is truly remarkable. His desire for viewers to feel empowered, to see his work and think, "This is an easy picture to draw," speaks to his belief in the universality of art and the accessibility of creative expression to all. It's a testament to Matisse's ability to distill complex emotions and concepts into forms that resonate with people from all walks of life.
Updated in 2024.05.23
