Materials:
-Colored construction paper
-11in x 14in white paper
-Scissors
-Glue
-Pictures from magazines/newspapers
This is a project based off the jazz inspired collages by Henri Matisse. Matisse (1869-1954) was a French artist remembered for his use of vibrant color, and is considered one of the three most important artists, alongside Pablo Picasso and Marchel Duchamp, of the early 20th century. These three artists influenced generations of artists to look at painting and sculpture in a new light.
Matisse made a whole series of collages based off of music and the circus, published in a book titled Jazz. For this project, first listen to Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin. Look at Matisse's collages as you listen to the music. Now, listen to the song again, or other jazz music you might have at hand, as you come up with your own collage. The idea is to cut out simple shapes, using lots of color. Many of Matisse's collages look like the figures are dancing or flying. Or the designs look like the music might if given physical form. If your kids are stuck on how to start, ask them that: "What would this music look like? What shapes does it make your think of? What kind of lines would go with this song--smooth flowing or sharp jagged ones? What kind of colors do you think go with this song--bright or dark colors?"
You can watch the Fantasia 2000 interpretation of Rhapsody in Blue for inspiration too:
