Why Matisse is a brilliant artist for children to learn about…

Hands on Primary Learning Pack - Matisse

Henri Matisse, is a master painter, but the simplicity of his cut-out work means even the youngest learners can use his techniques to create beautiful art.

“Cut-Outs” are artworks created from cutting and assembling coloured paper into bold shapes and compositions.

Matisse begun making his famous “cut-outs” when he was in poor-health in his later life and painting had become more difficult. Rather than seeing this as a limitation, he created some of his most joyful, iconic work. Using painted paper, scissors and his imagination, Matisse created compositions filled with colour, movement and organic shapes. Many of these works reflect the bright colours that had already become a hallmark of his Fauvist paintings.

Henri Matisse (1953). Papiers découpés exhibition poster. Berggruen & Cie, Paris. Image via Wikimedia Commons.

This image is cropped.

Why is Matisse so engaging for children?

Unlike many famous artists, Matisse's work doesn't ask children to copy something perfectly. Instead, it inspires creativity and experimentation.

His artwork invites children to:

• cut, arrange and rearrange shapes before deciding on a final composition.

• explore colour combinations and discover how colours work together.

• notice shapes in nature, such as leaves, shells and flowers, and transform them into simple paper forms.

• create expressive artwork without worrying about making it look realistic.

• build confidence by discovering that simple shapes can become something beautiful.

Perhaps most importantly, Matisse reminds us that creativity is about ideas rather than perfection. His famous cut-outs show children that a pair of scissors, coloured paper and a willingness to experiment can be just as powerful as paintbrushes and expensive art materials.

To learn and create more explore our Free Matisse Cut-Outs Learning Pack by subscribing to the free Hands on Learning newsletter.

Example crafts from Hands On Learning’s Free Matisse cut-outs learning pack.