Henri Matisse: Art Is Life Essay

He traveled to Africa, Spain, and Germany and even studied in Russia, where he was exposed to Islamic art. The Dance is one painting that captures a new direction and style of Matisse's painting. Here Matisse is focusing on a single act of humanity. The style is more compact in it use of color. The interplay of human activity is one of the most significant changes we see in Matisse's work. The colors in this piece seem to work more with each other as a whole than they do in the Open Window, Collioure. The shapes could also represent the Eastern influence that we see can be traced backed to the kind of style used in rugs or other decorative pieces. This paining looks as though it is complementing life itself. It is also worth noting that the Dance is completely focused on pleasure. In the Dance, we also see colors and shapes that create an organic whole. The distorted bodied create a rhythm and energy that replicates movements of dance in general. The orange-colored bodies against the bluish background create a dynamic tension. Many believe that this type of dynamic is what allows us to believe that these figures are alive -- or at least once were. They move, stretch and appear to glide to music that is unheard. While the music is silent, we can see it in the bodies of these characters. This painting is much different from the Open Window, Collioure in presentation and meaning yet it still clings to the traditional Fauve elements by remaining colorful and vibrant with verve.

Matisse is well-known for his flamboyant contributions to art. He was not concerned with what others thought and found a way to express himself that was no t only expressive but influential. He wanted his art to reflect his emotion and he also desired that it evoke emotion among his audience. He was lucky in that his art not only inspired his audience but also his fellow artists, who felt compelled to follow his example of using color and lines in a very different, spontaneous way. His life demonstrates the evolution of art as it changes with experience and practice. The Open Window, Collioure and the Dance are two works that represent different stages of the artist's life. They both encompass the artist's style yet they do so from different stages of his life. Matisse, consumed with spontaneity and verve, illustrates how art reflects life even when we least expect it.

Work Cited

Flam,…