[FAC] Two of the biggest names in fine art - IN FRESNO, AT THE MET NOW!

[John English]

Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall are two names synonymous with some of the greatest art the world has ever known.  I'll bet you weren't yet aware that you can see the works of both RIGHT NOW in Fresno.  

The Art Books of Henri Matisse offers a look at another aspect of this famous artist's work. Interestingly enough, his painstakingly created book illustrations were among the pieces of which he was most proud.
Most art lovers are acquainted with the boldly colored paintings of Henri Matisse, one of the most important artists of the twentieth century. Fewer are aware of his art books, though Matisse himself declared: "I do not distinguish between the construction of a book and that of a painting." 
The Art Books of Henri Matisse presents four of these rare and engaging works, selected from the Bank of America Collection. 

Marc Chagall: The Early Etchings from the 1920s is an eccentric look at 65 early monochromatic etchings by Russian-born artist Marc Chagall (1887-1985).
The exhibition is based on two popular literary documents: Les Ames mortes (The Dead Souls) by 19th-century Russian novelist Nikolai Gogol, and Selected Fables, by 18th-century French author Jean de La Fontaine.  Chagall's familiar, cartoonish whimsy is in full view here as he retells these tales in his own unique fashion.

Plus, Chagall for Children brings his works to life for the younger set.  This interactive exhibition features 14 fine reproductions of the artist's works. Viewers may experience and explore paintings such as The Birthday, The Rooster and Paris Through the Window, through a variety of multi-sensory, hands-on activities. 
This is a can't-miss opportunity for art enthusiasts in the Fresno area.  Two of the world's finest artists, right here in our community.  Visit the Met this weekend, bring a friend and enjoy!




John M. English
Manager, Marketing and Communications
Fresno Metropolitan Museum
1555 Van Ness Avenue
Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 441-1444 ext. 227
(559) 441-8607 fax
johne at fresnomet.org
www.fresnomet.org