Matisse, 1941-1954 review – hit after glorious hit in a show of life-enhancing genius

Eddie Frankel | The Guardian | 24th April 2026

How much is not known about Matisse? A little, it seems. This show covers his “late” works, from 1941 to his death in 1954, and overturns the conventional view that by then his art was in decline. In fact, he produced three artistic “revolutions”. He simplified his images, especially in his drawings. He also pioneered “cut-out” works. Finally, he produced “spiritual” works in stained glass. Being about Matisse, the show is naturally “a dizzying, joyous celebration of colour, form, line, light”. A podcast is here.