Henri's Scissors
What’s inside...
Henri's Scissors is a picture book by Jeanette Winter that tells the story of the famous French artist Henri Matisse and his transition from painting to creating cut-out art. As Matisse grows older and battles illness, he finds himself unable to paint with the same ease as before. However, his passion for art and color remains undiminished. The book follows Matisse as he discovers a new medium—cutting shapes from painted paper with scissors. This new form of art allows him to express himself in bold, vibrant compositions, and he continues to create from his bed and wheelchair, demonstrating resilience and innovation. The book is a celebration of creativity, adaptation, and the enduring spirit of an artist who finds new ways to share his vision with the world, even in the face of physical limitations.
Discussion points
How do you think Henri felt when he could no longer paint with his hands and had to find a new way to create art?
What would you create if you only had a pair of scissors and some paper?
Why do you think Henri chose scissors to express his art when he couldn't use paint?
How did Henri's art change after he started using scissors?
What does this story teach us about overcoming challenges?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express empathy by asking how they would feel in Henri's situation. Highlight the theme of adaptability and creativity, prompting them to think about alternative ways to perform tasks they enjoy if faced with challenges. Link the story to real-life scenarios by discussing times when they had to adapt to a new situation. Lastly, inspire them to create their own ‘paper cut-out’ artwork after reading, fostering a hands-on understanding of the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and resilience
Explanation: The book tells the story of Henri Matisse, a famed artist who turns to cutting shapes from paper to create art after he becomes ill and bedridden.
Real-World Application: Children learn to adapt and find new ways to express themselves when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in adversity
Explanation: Despite his illness, Matisse doesn't give up on his passion for art, showing determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to continue pursuing their passions and interests, even when obstacles appear.
Example Lesson: The healing power of art
Explanation: Art becomes a therapeutic outlet for Matisse, helping him cope with his illness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use creative outlets such as drawing, painting, or crafting to deal with their own emotions and challenges.
Example Lesson: Innovation through limitation
Explanation: Matisse innovates a new form of art—cut-outs—from his limited mobility, demonstrating that limitation can spur creativity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively and use their limitations as opportunities to innovate and problem-solve.