Henri Matisse. A quest for light, colour and freedom

by Victoria Charles

This book offers a vivid portrait of Henri Matisse, one of the foremost artists of the 20th century. Born in 1869 in Cateau-Cambrésis, Matisse initially pursued a legal career before turning to painting, inspired by the Impressionists. Renowned as a master of colour, he is celebrated for his revolutionary paper cut-outs and his defining role in Fauvism. Tracing his artistic evolution—from early experiments to the luminous works of his later years in Nice—this richly illustrated volume features over a hundred reproductions of his most iconic pieces. It invites readers into Matisse’s expressive world while offering intimate glimpses into the personal life and creative influences that shaped his extraordinary journey.

165 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 10, 2025

About the author

Victoria Charles received her PhD in history of art. She has published extensively on the subject and has regularly contributed to Art Information, an international guide to contemporary art.

Frequently writing articles for specialised journals and magazines, Victoria Charles recently contributed to a collective work, World History of Art.