Documentary on Arte Explores Creation of Matisse's Final Masterpiece, the Vence Chapel

A documentary titled 'La chapelle du Rosaire, le dernier chef-d'œuvre de Matisse' by filmmaker Joséphine Duteuil premiered on Arte's streaming platform on April 5, 2026. The film examines the origins and construction of the Chapel of the Rosary in Vence, France, which represents Henri Matisse's final major artistic project. The chapel was consecrated on June 25, 1951, though Matisse, in poor health, was absent from the ceremony. The project began in the 1940s after Matisse met Monique Bourgeois, a nursing student who later became Sister Jacques-Marie after joining a religious order. Their friendship inspired the chapel's creation, with Matisse financing part of the building designed by architect Auguste Perret. Over four years, Matisse oversaw every aspect, including liturgical objects and vestments, while facing criticism from both the Church and avant-garde artists like Pablo Picasso. The documentary highlights the chapel's innovative sacred art, particularly its stained glass windows in blue, green, and yellow, and uses archival footage and rotoscoped animations to convey the space's luminous quality. The film also emphasizes Sister Jacques-Marie's role in the project. The documentary is available on Arte until July 25, 2026.