A while ago, I saw a Matisse exhibit at the museum. Though his style is not how I prefer to paint, there was something that intrigued me. I wanted to try copying one of his masters but in a way that was still mine. I decided to create my copy in a museum setting.

I was intrigued by how much people were studying each painting. That was part of the inspiration for this painting. Also I wanted to try copying the style to see if I could get any better understanding for his work.

I was proud of myself for thinking of the idea. Then as I sifted thru images of Matisse’s work. I found that he had done it himself! He did a scene of the inside of his studio with one of his own paintings leaning against the wall!

I had to combine several references as photo taking was not allowed in the exhibit. 
And the two painting I wanted to use did not appear together in the exhibit.
The two paintings "on the wall" are Bathers by the River & The Dance. The composition took a lot of playing around. It seemed that for all the busy-ness of the “museum wall” that the “viewer” needed to be simpler.

I analyzed the reference a lot before painting each shape. I'm not looking to make an exact duplicate. But I do want it recognized as a reference to Matisse's painting.

”Museum Series- Matisse”, Acrylics. 30"x40"

I’m happy with the finished painting. I finished it with 2 days to spare before the show entry cutoff. Yeah!

Fingers crossed that the judge likes my painting and it gets into the show!