Posted in Art

Two of the modern greats in the art world are Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso.  Now, Picasso is more well known, of the two, but in their day they were equally known in the art world. 

I have been studying the lives of these painters.  I am amazed at the course of their friendship, in adversity they admittedly still had their bond.  I have found each life fascinating. 

There is so much to learn about artists, these two are no exception.  Many times we focus on the long gone artists, e.g. DaVinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, etc.  I encourage you to take a moment to look at some of the more modern artists more closely; you will be fascinated.

For example, when people think Picasso, they think cubism.  However, his most well known pieces were those that truly pushed cubism to a new level.  He began much more "gently".  Often times when studying a later piece, I find it hard to see what he was painting.  Matisse does use cubism, but he uses a sifferent form.  There is much symbolism in his work as well and the colors are often vibrant!  Take a peek at some of his work and note the empty chairs.  In studying his work you will see what this tells you about himself.  Art is so revealing. 

Why study art?  I am sure many would have a more intellectual answer than I.  For me, I enjoy being able to view art and see the story behind the inspiration.  When visiting am exhibit that contained one of my favorite Matisse pieces, I was actually brought to tears.  Knowing what was happening in his life and what the picture symbolised, was like a window into his heart.  It is for this reason, I believe studying art is so important.  To really know a piece, is to know the artist and what his life encompassed at the time of the works.   

Use your time off to learn more about the works, minds, and lives of Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse.  You will be entranced with their intertwining lives. 

These are my thoughts.

Tagged: culture art art history Picasso Matisse homeschool