The artwork “Blue Sketchbook” by Henri Matisse, completed in 1945, is an expressionist piece characterized as a still life. Matisse, known for his vibrant color palette and fluid draughtsmanship, was a leading figure of the Expressionism movement. In this artwork, Matisse constructs a domestic scene replete with objects and a figure, employing bold colors and abstracted forms to convey a sense of emotional and visual intensity.
In this notably vibrant artwork, a figure is depicted reclining on a chaise longue, rendered in broad, loose brushstrokes that emphasize the plasticity of form rather than detailed realism. The room is filled with objects that contribute to the still life genre of the piece, including a circular table adorned with fruit and a vase with flowers. At the center, a plant adds a touch of verdant green, contrasting with the dominant red hues of the room’s interior.
The backdrop features patterned wallpaper with organic shapes and a window or picture frame presenting a view that provides depth to the composition. The use of color is bold, with swathes of red, green, and blue creating a dynamic interplay, while the overall effect remains cohesive and atmospheric. The technique reflects the expressive potential Matisse sought through his art, evoking mood and ambience with each brushstroke.
