Connect to Art > Henri Matisse

Grades 2-5.
Preknowledge: Cut and paste independently. Independent writing.

Reading

Read Matisse book from Masterpieces: Artist and Their Works series.

Math: Geometry/Pattern/Pre-Algebra

Collect wallpaper, fabric and decorative paper swatches (approximately 4" x 6"). Instruct students to choose four swatches and then to cut out a different shape from the center of each piece. Have students place cutout shapes in one pile and the rest of paper/fabric in another. Using piles, explain positive and negative space. Use a large sheet of white or black paper (12" x 18" minimum), and paste positive and negative shapes in a pattern as a decoupage. Overlapping will be necessary and will enhance the pattern.

History: Geography and Time Lines

Locate France on a map and discuss geographical features (i.e., rivers, mountain ranges, lakes). Plot a time line of Matisse's life or research important events/people during the Impressionistic or Fauvist movements.

Creative Writing/Character Development

Matisse admired and was influenced by a lot of famous painters. Ask students to reflect on who they admire and why, as well as how this person influences them. Have students write the sentence "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery" at the top of a sheet of paper. Ask students to write about a person they look up to and try to be like.

Art: Fauvism/Emotion

On a large sheet of painting paper, have students sketch a self portrait in pencil. Offer bright paint colors or markers only (no flesh tones) and instruct students to select colors that reflect their mood that day to color their self portrait. Encourage students to use broad, bold strokes while painting/coloring.