Henri Matisse: Free Art Lesson Plans and Resources for Homeschooling

Henri Matisse, one of the most respected artists of the twentieth century, is the focus of this collection of free art lesson plans and resources. Several of these resources require only limited preparation, and items from around the house. Others may require a trip to the art store.

Henri Matisse Biographies for Kids
Hey Kids, Meet Henri Matisse -"Henri Matisse was born on December 31, 1869 in Le Cateau-Cambresis in northern France. His parents, Emile Matisse and Heloise Gerars, owned a general store where they sold household goods and seed. Henri was their first son. As a young man, Henri traveled to Paris to study law. In 1889 he returned home to work in a law office as a clerk. It was around this time that he had an attack of appendicitis which required surgery. To make the long recovery more enjoyable, his mother gave him a paint box. It was then, at the age of 21, that Matisse discovered painting and decided to become an artist."

Henri Matisse for Kids - "Henri Matisse (1869-1954) is considered one of the greatest modern artists, know for his use of rich, bright colors, fanciful patterns, flattened abstract forms and graceful lines. Matisse worked very hard to create art like 'a comfortable arm chair' in which to relax. Matisse's art is beloved by many for its lively harmonies and joyous spirit."

Free Lesson Plans
Painting with Scissors - In Matisse's old age he was confined to a wheelchair, and could not paint anymore. At this point he decided to make paper cut-outs. He referred to the technique as "painting with scissors." This lesson plan allows children to experience Matisse's working process as they recreate a Matisse masterpiece. Grade Level: 3-8

My Matisse - Explore the emotional content of Matisse's work by either recreating a Matisse masterpiece, or by creating a work of their own based on the ideas they adapt from a discussion about his work. Grade Level: 4-8

Meet Maisse - With nothing more a basic collection of art supplies, students will experience Matisse's art through a lesson series that introduce them to his early and late working styles. Grade Level: 2-4

Matisse Cookie - Create an art masterpiece in you kitchen. Bake a batch of your favorite sugar cookies, and then turn them into a Matisse masterpiece. Grade Level: 3-8

Art Masterpiece Coloring Page
Woman with a Hat Coloring Page - Art masterpiece coloring pages provide children with an opportunity to interact with a piece of art in a very concentrated way. Not only do they look at the masterpiece, they become involved with it. This involvement with the artwork will, as a result, leave a much more lasting impression of the artwork, and possibly a greater appreciation for art in general. Grade Level: 2-6

Desktop Wallpaper
Download a masterpiece for your computer desktop and allow your children to emmerse themselves in the art of Matisse.
Icarus (Cut-Out) | Desktop Wallpaper
Oceanie, Le Ciel (Cut-Out) | Desktop Wallpaper
Woman with a Hat (Painting) | Desktop Wallpaper

Free Word Search Worksheet
Henri Matisse Word Search - Review what your students have learned with a free printable word search worksheet. This worksheet is designed to enhance reading skills, as well as drill facts about Matisse. Grade Level: 3-8