Eleanor Rahim: Toulouse-Lautrec and Matisse at MoMA

Monday, November 10, 2014

Toulouse-Lautrec and Matisse at MoMA

My main mission on a recent visit to the Museum of Modern Art here in NYC was to see Henri Matisse: The Cut-Outs, the show of the season. It's a terrific exhibition including 100 cut-outs, drawings, prints, stained glass, textiles and illustrated books. I was inspired by the bold colors and giant, simple, abstract figurative works.

I have always had a soft spot for the work of Toulouse-Lautrec, his use of line and shape and the way I am transported back in time and can almost see, hear and smell, the Parisian cafes, brothels, cabarets and other theatrical productions and events he attended. Here are a few pieces in the exhibition I had not seen before.

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Judith Wendell, Sacred Currents

“As a Feng Shui consultant and integrative designer, I look for specific representation and metaphor in artwork. The first time I saw a piece of Eleanor’s work, [Fluid State] I was struck first by its movement, which can be very effective in energizing a particular area of one’s life or business if it is placed prescriptively. The other aspect which I found potent, is her use of color. Color interprets the ‘five elements’ or what is referred to as ‘agents of change’ in feng shui. 'Fluid State' is primarily whites and blues - the metal and water elements. Metal represents virtue, communication, joy and creativity. Water is associated with wisdom, one’s path in life and finances. I immediately thought I love this piece and what a powerful adjustment it would make for my client.”