Matisse in the 1930s at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art pays homage to one of the 20th century’s most influential artists during his most pivotal decade at Matisse in the 1930s.
The museum worked with the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris and the Musée Matisse Nice to curate a collection of about 140 works from public and private collections ranging from the world-renowned to the rarely seen across various mediums.
This is the first major exhibition dedicated to the art of Henri Matisse in the 1930s — and the only United States venue.
Opening first in Philadephia, Matisse in the 1930s runs from October 20, 2022 to January 29, 2023.
The story behind Matisse in the 1930s is distinctly Philadelphian.
By 1930, the French artist had reached international renown but was in a deep creative slump — until he received a commission for a mural to fill the main gallery of the Barnes Foundation, then located in a Philadelphia suburb.
Matisse worked on The Dance from 1930 to 1933, thus unlocking a new era of art — and a distinctive new style as well.
Matisse in the 1930s spans several galleries, one of which is dedicated to The Dance, tracing the evolution of the Barnes mural from conception to completion, including a full-scale demo painting standing nearly 11 feet tall.
The exhibition also explores changes in the artist’s work as his style grew from naturalistic studies of light and space to the bold forms seen throughout the 1930s.
The stories behind other significant commissions, like the collaboration betweeen Matisse and the Ballet Ruse de Monte Carlo, are highlighted as well.
A visit to Matisse in the 1930s is incomplete without a stop at the exhibition store.
Books, stationery and prints featuring the famed works are available alongside home goods, accessories and toys inspired by the works of Matisse in the 1930s.
A selection of goods are exclusive to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and will not be available at any other stops along the tour.
Matisse in the 1930s is a separately ticketed exhibition. Tickets are for timed entry every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. until an hour and a half before the Philadelphia Museum of Art closes.
Standard tickets are $30 and include timed entry to the exhibition and general admission to the museum.
Those looking to enhance their experience can purchase a premium all-inclusive package for $180 ($168 for members). The premium package includes two exhibition tickets, an exhibition catalog and lunch for two at Stir, the museum’s Frank Gehry-designed restaurant.
Lastly, how’s this for a deal: Anyone purchasing a regularly priced ticket will get an email with a chance to purchase a return ticket for 50% off.
Click below for more about Matisse in the 1930s and to buy tickets.
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