Matisse Cut-Outs: Create Your Own Composition!
Bring the vibrant world of Henri Matisse into your classroom with this hands-on, color-filled project inspired by his famous paper cut-outs. This engaging activity is perfect for introducing students to modern art, shape, and composition in a fun, creative way.
 
What’s Included:
Page 1 – Meet the Artist
A brief, student-friendly biography of Henri Matisse
Background on his late-life cut-out technique (“painting with scissors”)
Page 2 – Student Instructions
Step-by-step directions to guide students in creating their own Matisse-inspired artwork
Tips for balance, movement, color, and layout
Pages 3–19 – Matisse-Style Cut-Out Shapes
17 pages of abstract, organic shapes inspired by Matisse’s iconic style
Ready to print, cut, and arrange
Perfect for free exploration or structured design challenges
Why It Works:
Encourages creative thinking and abstract composition
Reinforces principles of balance, shape, and design
No drawing skills required—just imagination and scissors!
A wonderful tie-in to art history, Fauvism, or collage units
Use it for:
✔️ Art history lessons
✔️ Sub plans
✔️ Bell ringers
✔️ Creativity breaks