In my thesis, I focused on the analysis of artworks in which the canvas is not only present as a carrier surface but has been given an additional meaning in relation to the subject of the work and thus contributes to its content. As the main starting point for my investigation, I chose the art of Simon Hantai, whose approach to the canvas and its use is absolutely unique in the history of art. After looking at the history of the canvas, I will describe the transformation of the role of the canvas through a selected painting by Matisse, and finally turn to Hantai’s oeuvre.