The start of the 20th century saw many young artists producing seemingly absurd paintings. They used vibrant colors and rough brushworks. The works of Matisse was a clear standout, obviously at the forefront of whatever new movement it was supposed to be. The paintings caught the eyes of many. Some nodded in appreciation while others voiced their disapproval. But it gained worldwide acknowledgement only after Louis Vauxcelles made his comment about these paintings being the work of les fauves or in other words, wild beasts.
In 1905, Salon d’ Automme is holding its annual exhibition of paintings and sculptures. Like the past years, they invited distinguished artists and guests alike from socialites to art critics. Vauxcelles, being a famed art critic of his time, was immediately included. It so happens that the paintings of Matisse were situated beside a beautifully-structured Renaissance sculpture. It proved to be a stark contrast to it that the view immediately caught the eye of Vauxcelles. He shrieked that the sculpture is a Donatello among wild beasts.
For him, the paintings are scandalous. They use colors that are either too bright or unnatural. Most include nude images that portray nothing but a clear attempt to being artistic and abstract. He slammed Matisse, Derain, Dufy and Friesz as a group of artists trying to orchestrate something out of the ordinary but appearing as incredulous. They are trying to influence aspiring artists and many are innocent enough to follow their footsteps.
Many other critics agreed with Vauxcelles but the public’s view seemed otherwise. His statement brought the movement much fame. Many artists were encouraged to follow Matisse’s footsteps and continued to produce outstanding pieces. But more than that, the movement earned a name, Fauvism. It may be a work of wild beasts but the artists embraced it and used the criticisms to their best advantage.
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