Swipe ➡️ to see the painting come into focus. Laying the foundation for a landscape of lovers, musicians, and lounging figures, the first image is the last known oil sketch Matisse created for the vibrant painting “Le Bonheur de vivre” (The Joy of Life).” In 1905, paintings with themes of arcadia, or harmony with nature, were expected in the art world. Matisse’s execution was not. “Sketch for “Le Bonheur de vivre” (The Joy of Life)” shares an intimate look at Matisse’s vision—where clashing colors and bold brushstrokes left their mark on other painters of the time. As the firs t work Elise S. Haas acquired from the Steins, it started a collection that would later include “Femme au chapeau” and transform modern art at SFMOMA forever. 🖼️ 💫 See how Matisse created his own formula for color in “Matisse’s Femme au chapeau: A Modern Scandal.” _ Henri Matisse, “Sketch for “Le Bonheur de vivre” (The Joy of Life),” 1905-6; Collection SFMOMA, bequest of Elise S. Haas, 1991; © Succession H...