Book details
Henri's Scissors
Description
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.
Age
3-7
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
40 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Inspiration from Real Life: 'Henri's Scissors' tells the true story of the famous artist Henri Matisse and his transition to creating cut-out art after illness limited his ability to paint. It serves as an inspirational tale of overcoming adversity and adapting creatively to life's challenges.
- Artistic Appreciation: The book provides an accessible introduction to Matisse's work and artistic evolution, making it a great starting point for readers of all ages to appreciate the importance of his contributions to modern art.
- Educational Value: 'Henri's Scissors' offers educational insights into the history of art, the life of an artist, and the process of artistic creation. It can be a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to teach children about these topics.
- Visual Engagement: Jeanette Winter's illustrations are vibrant and engaging, mirroring the style of Matisse's cut-outs. Reading this book is not only an educational experience but also a visual delight that can stimulate creativity and imagination in readers.