Abeno Harukas Art Museum

Henri Matisse and Georges Henri Rouault, two prominent masters of French modern painting, formed their friendship in Paris at the École des Beaux-Arts. Following graduation, they participated in the short-lived Fauvism movement, whose members’ colorful and informal works were considered unconventional when compared with the representative nature of fashionable Impressionist art of the era. From there, the two men went on to develop starkly different styles and juxtaposing career trajectories. Matisse, influenced by his travels through Southern Europe and Northern Africa, used vibrant colors to bring life to everyday subjects. Rouault, meanwhile, focused on moralistic motifs involving religious figures and observations of human nature. During a period of more than 50 years, the two artists corresponded in writing to keep in touch and support one another’s creative endeavors. This exhibition provides guests with an opportunity to view these letters alongside works highlighting the individual personalities of Rouault and Matisse.

Matisse & Rouault Exhibition
• Until May 28 • Open: 10am–8pm (until 6pm Mon, Sat, Sun, & holidays, until 8pm May 3 ~7 ) • Closed: Mon (except May 1, 15, 22 ) • Admission: ¥1,400 • Access: Tennoji & Osaka Abenobashi Stn • Tel: 06-4399-9050 • aham.jp