A rare lithograph by renowned 20th-century French artist Henri Matisse has been added to an innovative art lending program that allows Yorkshire residents to display museum-quality artwork in their own homes. The piece, titled "The Dancer" and created in 1949, is one of only 24 lithographs produced by Matisse during the 1940s and represents a significant addition to the Leeds Art Gallery's Picture Library lending scheme.

The Matisse lithograph is among more than 100 new artworks recently added to the lending program, bringing the total collection to 140 pieces available for borrowing. The diverse selection ranges from works by emerging local artists in Leeds to historic prints from established masters. Jane Bhoyroo, the gallery's principal keeper, emphasized that the program serves residents throughout Yorkshire, making high-quality art accessible beyond traditional museum walls.

"The Picture Library is a much-loved part of Leeds Art Gallery's programme," Bhoyroo explained. "This season we're excited to introduce several new works to the lending scheme, from those by young artists in the city, to historic prints." The program allows participants to view and select artworks directly from the gallery, with the current selection period running through Sunday.

Henri Matisse, who lived from 1869 to 1954, became one of the most influential artists of the modern era. In his later years, the French master was confined to bed due to health issues and famously shifted his focus to creating vibrant cut-paper collages known as "cut-outs." While "The Dancer" is a lithograph print rather than an original cut-out, it features similar stylized shapes that became characteristic of Matisse's revolutionary late-period work.

Salma Arif, Leeds City Council's executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, praised the lending scheme for democratizing access to fine art. "Bringing these beautiful artworks into our communities gives those people taking part the chance to experience and appreciate art in a completely new and individual way and to put culture at the heart of our homes and families," she stated. The program ensures that art remains "accessible and available to everyone," regardless of their ability to visit traditional gallery spaces.

Established in 1961, the Picture Library has been operating for more than six decades as a unique cultural resource. The comprehensive collection includes oil paintings, watercolors, drawings, photographs, and various types of prints spanning different artistic movements and time periods. The program's flexible membership structure allows residents to borrow one artwork for up to one full year, or alternatively, they can choose to swap four different artworks throughout their membership period, providing ongoing variety and cultural enrichment in their living spaces.