Born in France in 1869, Matisse was one of the 20th century's most radical artists and one whose genius was something of a "quiet storm". While other Modern Masters were skilled self-publicists, Matisse's lower profile meant that critical acclaim took a little longer to appear.

He pioneered a revolutionary use of colour and form and dispensed with traditional art techniques, refusing to accept that colour must reflect the real world. Today, his work still inspires many influential image-makers, including advertisers and cartoonists, as well as fashion and interior designers.