Henri Matisse (December 31, 1869 – November 3, 1954)

                                                                                    

Self-Portrait

1900

Matisse, some argue, had a greater influence on the Modernist movements of the 20th century than any other artist, including Picasso. It's a difficult argument to carry, but as you stare into his immensely absorbing, colorful and varied paintings, it's hard, at least for the moment, not to believe it. 

Harmony in Red

1908

Still Life with Pitcher and Fruit 

c. 1898

"La Danse" with Nasturtiums

1912