Combine bright colors with real leaves to create fun abstract art inspired by the famous artist, Henri Matisse! Matisse art for kids is also a great way to explore art with kiddos of all ages. All you need is some paint, a sheet of art paper, and a few leaves you have collected yourself!
MATISSE AND LA GERBE
At the end of his life, Matisse began creating compositions using cut paper. He began drawing “with scissors” after some health issues left him confined to a wheelchair, and his restricted movement made it too difficult for him to paint.
He cut paper and then directed his assistants in arranging the composition. Larger arrangements were placed directly onto the walls of his studio and reconfigured until he was happy with the placement.
La Gerbe (The Sheaf) is a large-scale ceramic mural Matisse created during this time for Sidney and Frances Brody and their new home in California. It features a colorful repeated pattern similar to what you will create below with your leaf prints.
MORE FUN MATISSE ART PROJECTS FOR KIDS
MATISSE ART WITH LEAVES
Oak leaves really resemble the look of Henri Matisse’s La Gerbe painting. Try this stamping activity to recreate the look!
SUPPLIES:
- Oak leaves (or any leaves will do)
- Paint
- Paintbrush
- Art paper
HOW TO MAKE A MATISSE INSPIRED PAINTING WITH LEAVES
STEP 1. Collect leaves of a size that will make several stamps on the art paper.
STEP 2. Use the paintbrush to cover the front of the leaf in a good bit of paint of different colors.
STEP 3. Place the paint covered leaf down on the page and press firmly all over the leaf, making sure it touches the paper completely.
STEP 4. Lift the leaf carefully off the paper and repeat. Be inspired by the design pattern of Matisse’s La Gerbe!
MORE FUN ART PROJECTS FOR KIDS
Printable Fall Art Project Pack
This Fall Art Project Packincludes everything you need —just add art supplies! It’s perfect for kids of all ages to enjoy using a variety of techniques. Whether in the classroom, at home, or with groups, there is a fantastic variety of art activities to try!
Find all the instructions and templates necessary for over 40 art projects this Fall.
Apples, pumpkins, leaves, Halloween, and Thanksgiving!
Explore process art, STEAM, and even famous artists with these very doable art activities that won’t break the budget or the time you have available!
