A Matisse Moment

It never ceases to amaze me how inspiration can come from any place at any time.  When I was in New York I went to the Met to see the Schiaparelli and Prada exhibit and ended up finding this beautiful painting by famed French artist, Henri Matisse (1869-1954).  Espagnole: Harmonie en bleu (Spanish Woman: Harmony in Blue), 1923 belongs to a small series of portraits in which Matisse depicts Henriette Darricarrère.  In each case, she appears before a different fabric background and is outfitted with various ethnic costumes and accessories.  Here she is dressed as a Spanish woman.  Although this painting was completed in 1923 the interior, with its patterned tablecloth, floral wallpaper, bright colors and hint of whimsy, feels very current. Art is one of my favorite sources for color inspiration -- I always seem to find new and interesting combinations. Above I've gathered some interior objects inspired by Henri's use of color and pattern! Are you feeling this modern day Matisse moment?

settee / yellow pillows / turkish kilim pillow / vintage oushak rug /  green venetian lamps / zanzibar gold leaf mirror / cobalt blue bench

(Images by Kristin Kerr)