Matisse: Radical Invention 1913-1917

I had the pleasure of attending the preview for Matisse: Radical Invention, 1913-1917 exhibition yesterday at the Museum of Modern Art and was blown away. The exhibition is the same one that was on view at The Art Institute of Chicago this year and is the result of a five year collaboration between the two museums. This period at the beginning of Henri Matisse's career is thought to be one of the most significant chapters in his evolution as an artist. You can see how he was influenced by Paul Cezanne and later the cubist painters including Picasso. My favorite works are those he painted during his travels to Morocco including Zorah in Yellow from 1912. The colors of teal green, blue and orange were especially inspiring. The absolute highlight of the preview was that Matisse's grandson, Paul Matisse, was on hand for the opening and made a few remarks! Can you imagine being related to Henri Matisse?! The exhibition opens July 18 and runs through October 11, 2010. Timed tickets are required so sign up soon! I can already tell this is going to be a very popular exhibition!