Matisse's 'Icarus' Told By Trevor: Pastel Drawing



Unlocking Imagination: The Art Of Simplicity And Provocation

Art has a unique ability to spark creativity, foster understanding, and provoke storytelling. When it comes to introducing someone like my nephew Trevor to master artists, I look for fun relatable examples that will be encouraging and inspirational.

I thought the beautiful works of Henri Matisse would be perfect. In particular, we embarked on a journey through Matisse's interpretation of the classic Greek myth of Icarus. In this article, I'll share why I chose Matisse's 'Icarus' and how this artistic exploration unfolded. Here's how Trevor had the chance to breathe life into an ancient tale and give it a modern twist.

Who Was Henri Matisse?

Henri Matisse (1869-1954), was a famous French artist. He is celebrated for his innovative use of color and form. His work often captures a sense of light heartedness and spontaneity. The sense of 'the joy of life' his art provokes makes it highly accessible to individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

The Story of Icarus: Falling With A Beating Heart

This is the myth of Icarus, from Greek mythology. It tells the story of a young man who flew too close to the sun with wings made of feathers and wax.

Sadly Icarus fell into the sea and meet a tragic end. This story has been retold in various forms for centuries and provides a rich backdrop for artistic interpretation.

The story of consequences and particularly of being too near heat, is one that easily captures the imagination.

Trevor's Exploration

With 'Icarus' as our starting point, Trevor and I delved into Matisse's interpretation of the myth. We discussed the vibrant colors, the sense of movement, and the expressive and simple depiction of Icarus falling from the sky. Trevor was captivated by the image and wanted to create his own version.

Trevor's Icarus Is Safe

Trevor decided to create his pastel drawing of 'Icarus' based on Matisse's work, capturing the essence of the story through his own lens. Then, he went a step further by creating a second drawing that illustrated his interpretation of what happened to Icarus after his fall to Earth.

Trevor Let Brave Icarus Land In A Pool

Find Your Own Story

Introducing Trevor to the world of art through Henri Matisse's 'Icarus' was a fun journey. It allowed him to explore creativity, storytelling, and personal interpretation while engaging with a classic myth. Matisse's vibrant and imaginative style provided the perfect backdrop for Trevor to give life to his own artistic vision. It's a reminder that art is not just about appreciating the works of masters but also about finding one's voice and perspective through artistic expression, no matter your age, background or ability.


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