Henri Matisse was a French artist and designer who, among other things, is famous for his abstract paintings. Matisse is often called the "father of modern art" and the "greatest artist of the 20th century." Matisse's artwork can be found in many major museums and galleries all over the world. The artwork of Henri Matisse is synonymous with 20th-century art. The artwork of Henri Matisse is synonymous with 20th-century art.