Matisse: concepts of colour
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Wednesday 18 December 2019
(11am-4.15pm) - Keynes Library, Birkbeck School of Arts, 43 Gordon Square, London WC1H 0PD
- Lecturer: Ben Street
Henri Matisse (1869-1954) is one of the most unusual modern artists. While sometimes sidelined by art historians and critics in favour of his more obviously avant-garde contemporaries, Matisse’s best work remains deeply complex, intellectually rich, playful and mysterious. While in no way an attempt to explain away the compelling strangeness of Matisse’s work, this study way will present the artist in a number of contexts that will edge towards an understanding of some of the many potential meanings in his paintings, sculptures and works on paper. Looking at his work in terms of his contemporaries and collaborators, the artists of the past he most admired, and the artists who took on and explored his legacy after his death, this study day will present fresh thinking on Matisse, his art and his importance now.
Lecturer
Ben Street is a freelance art historian, lecturer and writer. He lectures on modern and contemporary art for Tate, Sotheby’s Institute of Art, Christie’s Education and the Royal Academy. He is the author of interpretative materials for major exhibitions at Tate, the Royal Academy and the National Gallery and has contributed essays for museum and gallery publications across the world. Ben’s recent book is How to enjoy Art.