Fauvism is a term derived from the French word “fauve,” which means “wild beast.” This art movement, which emerged in the early 20th century, is characterized by its use of bold, vibrant colors and expressive brushwork. The name was coined by art critic Louis Vauxcelles, who described the artists’ work as wild and untamed, much like the behavior of wild beasts.
Fauvist artists, such as Henri Matisse and André Derain, sought to break away from traditional artistic conventions and explore new ways of expressing emotion and sensation through color. Their works often featured exaggerated and non-naturalistic colors, which were used to convey the artist’s feelings rather than to accurately depict reality.
In summary, Fauvism in French refers to the “wild beast” style of painting that emphasizes bold colors and emotional expression over realistic representation.