On view at Naples Art Institute from January 18 - April 13, 2025

Art In Balance: Matisse & His Illustrated Works, presents a captivating selection of over 140 works that reveal Henri Matisse's genius as a printmaker and his unique approach to composition, color, and form. Spanning from the late 1930s through his final years, this exhibition highlights Matisse’s mastery in balancing intense colors with bold black contrasts—a technique he admired in Odilon Redon’s lithographs. Printmaking was central to Matisse’s creative journey, serving as an extension of his drawing. Through lithographs, pochoirs, and linocuts, Matisse revealed his working process, creating over 800 engravings that reflect his resilient spirit, especially during the later years when painting grew physically challenging.

Art In Balance explores Matisse’s artistic dialogue with classical and modern literature, highlighting the influence of the written word on his visual creations, particularly his collaboration with publisher Tériade, who facilitated iconic works like the Jazz portfolio. The exhibition also delves into Matisse’s deeply spiritual final years, during which he designed the chapel in Vence, widely regarded as his artistic testament. Photographs by Hélène Adant provide a rare glimpse into the reflective and practical moments behind this monumental project, revealing Matisse’s creative process and enduring "joie de vivre."