Vertigo of Color: Matisse, Derain, and the Origins of Fauvism

In the summer of 1905, Henri Matisse and André Derain went on holiday to Collioure, a French fishing village fifteen miles from the Spanish border. This book examines how two artists, entranced by the shifting light and stunning imagery of the eastern Mediterranean, laid the groundwork for the movement known as Fauvism. It features more than 70 paintings, watercolors, and drawings produced by Matisse and Derain during their stay and brings to life their personal and artistic revelations with 21 of their letters.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2023
Publisher: Metropolitan Museum of Art

In the vibrant summer of 1905, the artistic landscape was forever transformed by the revolutionary endeavors of French painters Henri Matisse and André Derain. Their daring color experiments pushed the boundaries of artistic expression, igniting a movement that would come to be known as Fauvism. During their vacation in Collioure, a picturesque French fishing village situated fifteen miles from the Spanish border, Matisse and Derain were captivated by the mesmerizing hues and breathtaking landscapes of the eastern Mediterranean. This captivating book delves into the profound impact of their artistic journey, exploring how these two visionaries laid the foundation for a movement that would revolutionize the art world.

Featuring over 70 paintings, watercolors, and drawings meticulously created by Matisse and Derain during their stay in Collioure, this publication offers a glimpse into their artistic brilliance. In addition, 21 of their letters, previously unpublished in English, are included, providing a unique insight into their personal thoughts and artistic revelations. Through vivid and engaging texts, the book delves into their audacious experiments with color, form, structure, and perspective, showcasing their unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

The scandal that their paintings caused when they were exhibited several months later only served to amplify their impact. The audacious use of bold colors and unconventional compositions defied the traditional norms of French painting, eliciting both praise and criticism in equal measure. However, it was the lasting influence of their works that truly distinguished them.

This publication serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of that summer. It highlights how Matisse and Derain's radical investigations galvanized their contemporaries, inspiring a generation of artists to embrace the power of color and break free from the constraints of traditional art. Even today, the vibrant spirit of Fauvism resonates in the works of contemporary artists, reminding us of the profound impact that a single summer can have on the course of art history.

Published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in collaboration with Yale University Press, this exquisite book is a must-have for art enthusiasts and historians alike. Its stunning visuals and insightful texts transport readers back to the summer of 1905, allowing them to experience the transformative power of Matisse and Derain's artistic vision firsthand.

As the book prepares to embark on a global tour, art enthusiasts around the world can eagerly anticipate the opportunity to witness the brilliance of Matisse and Derain's Fauvism in person. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York will host the exhibition from October 13, 2023, to January 21, 2024, followed by a subsequent exhibition at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, from February 25 to May 27, 2024.

In conclusion, the summer of 1905 marked a pivotal moment in art history, thanks to the visionary efforts of Henri Matisse and André Derain. Their daring color experiments and unwavering commitment to artistic exploration paved the way for the movement that would forever change the course of art. Through this captivating book, we are invited to witness the birth of Fauvism and the profound impact it had on the world of art.

Weight: 1046g
Dimension: 225 x 279 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781588397652