In the winter of 1912, Henri Matisse traveled to Morocco seeking inspiration during a low point in his career. Author Jeff Koehler reveals how this journey, motivated by commissions from Russian collectors and the allure of Tangier's light, resulted in over 20 paintings during his stays at the Grand Hotel Villa de France. Matisse faced challenges like bad weather and personal struggles, yet his work evolved, showcasing vibrant colors in contrast to his earlier Fauvist style. His experiences in the Moroccan landscape significantly impacted his artistic expression, rejuvenating his ability to create.
"It was crunch time for him... He was 42, mid-career, and yet to find lasting success. He'd lost patrons, critics, support."
"Matisse's Tangier trips were driven by a number of key factors; commissions from two important Russian collectors... helped justify the trip."
"Compared to his earlier Fauve landscapes, these vibrant, sensual colours were exhaled in a spirit of delight as opposed to the urgent, throbbing shrieks of his Fauve paintings."
"He spent about six weeks struggling on Moroccan Landscape (Acanthus) (1912) before quickly painting two others..."
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