Art Institute Showcases Rare Matisse 'Jazz' Exhibition in Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is currently hosting a rare exhibition titled 'Matisse’s Jazz: Rhythms in Color,' featuring the complete 1947 limited-edition book 'Jazz' by Henri Matisse. Created during World War II while Matisse recovered from cancer, the work utilizes vibrant cut-paper collages and hand-stenciled pochoir prints to express themes of love and creativity amidst hardship. Only 250 copies were originally produced, making this display of the museum’s acquired copy a significant cultural event. Since opening in March, the exhibition has attracted over 60,000 visitors, marking its first full public viewing since the institute acquired it in 1948. The timing coincides serendipitously with Chicago’s International Jazz Day festivities, although museum officials note this overlap was unplanned. The exhibition highlights Matisse’s innovative visual language and includes his stream-of-consciousness writings. It runs through June 1, offering a unique opportunity to view these fragile artworks that previously influenced major publications like Time and Vogue. This event underscores the enduring legacy of Matisse’s work and its continued relevance in contemporary art discourse.
Wire timeline
Art Institute Showcases Rare Matisse 'Jazz' Exhibition in Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is currently hosting a rare exhibition titled 'Matisse’s Jazz: Rhythms in Color,' featuring the complete 1947 limited-edition book 'Jazz' by Henri Matisse. Created during World War II while Matisse recovered from cancer, the work utilizes vibrant cut-paper collages and hand-stenciled pochoir prints to express themes of love and creativity amidst hardship. Only 250 copies were originally produced, making this display of the museum’s acquired copy a significant cultural event. Since opening in March, the exhibition has attracted over 60,000 visitors, marking its first full public viewing since the institute acquired it in 1948. The timing coincides serendipitously with Chicago’s International Jazz Day festivities, although museum officials note this overlap was unplanned. The exhibition highlights Matisse’s innovative visual language and includes his stream-of-consciousness writings. It runs through June 1, offering a unique opportunity to view these fragile artworks that previously influenced major publications like Time and Vogue. This event underscores the enduring legacy of Matisse’s work and its continued relevance in contemporary art discourse.
chicagotribune