André Derain

André Derain was born in 1880 in Chatou, France, and became one of the founders of Fauvism. Alongside Henri Matisse, he helped define the movement through bold, non-naturalistic color and expressive brushwork. Derain’s early paintings break away from traditional representation in favor of emotional intensity and simplified form. His landscapes and portraits from this period are among the most radical works of early modern art.

After the Fauvist years, Derain shifted toward a more classical and structured style, drawing inspiration from Renaissance and Baroque art. This change reflected his belief in balance and order within painting. He also worked in sculpture, illustration, and stage design. Derain remained an influential but often controversial figure throughout his career. He died in 1954. His work reflects the tensions between modern experimentation and classical tradition in 20th-century art.