The artwork titled “Destiny” was created by Henri Matisse in 1943. Classified under the genre of illustration and part of the “Jazz Book” series, it is associated with the Abstract Expressionism art movement, despite Matisse not formally being considered an Abstract Expressionist. The artwork features vibrant colors and abstract shapes, characteristic of Matisse’s later works which were dominated by simplicity and a bold use of color.
Examining the artwork in more detail, one observes two primary panels, each framed by different colored borders. The left panel contains a large black shape against a magenta background, contrasted by a pale pink border. The right panel displays a similar magenta background and a green border, within which a blue rectangle enclosed by a yellow outline encompasses a white abstract figure.
The artwork exudes a rhythmic and experimental play with color and form—an embodiment of Matisse’s innovative spirit during the period when he was confined to using paper cut-outs due to his ill health. These cut-outs allowed him to continue exploring artistic expression and compositional balance, even in this reduced medium. “Destiny” is a testament to the artist’s enduring desire to convey emotion and dynamic tension through the simplicity of cut paper and the interplay of colors.
