Louis Valtat

Louis Valtat was born in 1869 in Dieppe, France, and became an important precursor and participant in the Fauvist movement. He studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and was influenced by Impressionism and Post-Impressionism before developing a more vibrant style. Valtat is known for his bold use of color and energetic brushwork. His paintings often depict landscapes, gardens, interiors, and scenes of leisure.

Valtat experimented with strong, non-naturalistic color contrasts that anticipated Fauvism. At the same time, he maintained a sense of structure and decorative harmony. He worked in various media, including painting, printmaking, and illustration. Throughout his long career, Valtat remained independent, adapting his style while preserving his expressive use of color. He died in 1952. Today, he is recognized for his role in the transition from Impressionism to Fauvism and for his luminous, lively compositions.