John Klein

John Klein is a Professor of Art History and Archaeology at Washington University in St. Louis, specializing in European art of the early 20th century, particularly the work of Henri Matisse. He holds a PhD from Columbia University and teaches courses on modern art, sculpture, and museum theory. His research explores Matisse’s decorative art, portraiture, and collaborative projects, with notable works including *Matisse and Decoration* (2018) and essays on Matisse’s engagement with water and modernist series painting. Klein also contributes to academic discussions through book reviews and lectures, such as his keynote at the 2023 exhibition *Matisse by Matisse* in Beijing.

Education: PhD, Columbia University.

Research Interests: Modern European art, Matisse’s decorative techniques, portraiture, and modernist aesthetics. His current project examines global national portrait collections.

Publications Trends: Focused on Matisse’s late-career decorative works, collaborations, and thematic explorations (e.g., water, series painting). Also engages with art historical debates on materiality, abstraction, and transnational exchange.

Advising & Grants: While no formal advisees are listed, he co-teaches courses with the Fox School and has received institutional support for research initiatives.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum and international institutions like the Saint Louis Art Museum and the Barnes Foundation.