Matisse exhibition on show in Winchester's Discovery Centre (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Matisse exhibition on show in Winchester's Discovery Centre

2:50pm Wednesday 18th January 2012 in General

AN EXCEPTIONAL new Matisse exhibition has arrived at Winchester Discovery Centre straight from London’s Southbank Centre.

Drawing with Scissors will be on show in The Gallery at the centre until Sunday, March 18.

Born in France, Henri Matisse (1869-1954) was one of the 20th century’s most radical artists.

Matisse was not only a painter but also a sculptor and designer. He created his own style and was highly regarded throughout his life for his unconventional use of pure, brilliant colours.

His vibrant works are celebrated for their extraordinary richness and luminosity of colour.

Today, his work still influences image-makers, including advertisers and cartoonists, fashion and interior designers.

Matisse: Drawing with Scissors, a Hayward Touring exhibition, features 35 lithographic prints of the famous cut-outs, produced in the last four years of his life, and includes many of his iconic images, such as The Snail and the Blue Nudes.

Councillor Keith Chapman, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for culture and recreation, said: “The Gallery in Winchester has showcased many world-renowned artists in the past and Matisse is another who is not to be missed.

“Drawing With Scissors is a unique opportunity to view work by this legendary artist but it will only be in Hampshire for a limited time so I would urge people to visit while they have the chance.

“The county council recognises the significant cultural importance of exhibitions such as these, and it is a real privilege to be able to exhibit such prominent work in Hampshire before it embarks on its wider UK tour.”

A number of events are being held at the Discovery Centre to celebrate Matisse, including a talk by award-winning biographer Hilary Spurling, who will discuss her fascination with the artist. Matisse will be the inspiration for poetry writing, table lantern making, paper collage and more in workshops throughout February and March.

The gallery’s next display, Exposures, will span the exceptional career of photographer Jane Bown.