Dropping in on Rousseau

Written by Pam Stephens and animated by Jim McNeill, this art appreciation lesson for younger viewers uses the framing device of a fictional tale set in early 20th century Paris, where reporter Puffer the puffin stumbles upon legendary French painter Henri Rousseau in a botanical garden (an artists' haven, apparently: Picasso and Matisse are also wandering about). Man and bird walk and talk about Rousseau's life (his violin-playing, dropping out of school, stint in the French army, etc.), eventually ending up at his second wife Josephine's paper boutique. Throughout, the characters find some reason to examine examples of Rousseau's work, including “A Carnival Evening,” “The Sleeping Gypsy,” and “The Football Players” (though his most famous work, "The Dream," is conspicuously absent--most likely due to the nudity). Offering insights into the importance of composition, color choice, and possible origins of certain works, this short but informative program is recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P. (J. Williams)