Fauve Style

The French painters who emerged circa 1905 were labeled the "wild beast" Fauves because critics saw their style as rebellious.  With Fauve movement founder Henri Matisse as inspiration, they used bright, saturated colors, thick paint, and simplified shapes and forms to break from artistic tradition and open the door to 20th Century modern art.  Fauve works celebrate the joys of everyday life via whimsical landscapes and domestic settings -- including, at times, animals! My series spotlights my Fauvorite beasts -- cats.  

Cat in Pot

Medium: Oil on Canvas

Size: 24" X 36"

An enchanting Fauve slice of the royal life of cats.  This rascal stakes claim to a flower garden in a big pot of a graceful palm -- to sun, to rest, to guard.  The piece vibrates with luscious textured paint, spontaneous brush strokes, and bold complimentary colors of red/green, orange/blue, and gold/purple.  Stylized lines and patterns frame the central figure: the enthroned king -- or queen -- of the floral jungle reigning with divine right and cattitude.  The eyes say, "This is my turf -- not yours.  I'm the boss.  Get lost."  Yes, Your Majesty!

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Will Dinner Be Served?

Medium: Oil on Canvas

Size: 20" X 20"

Vivid pastels, stylish composition, and graceful lines lighten this capricious Fauve memorial to may late opportunistic cat, Max.  He stole the fish off my plate if I walked away from the table for 10 seconds.  I hope this piece makes you smile and chuckle. . .and reflect on humorous transgressions from your own ornery household beasts.   

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