Kees Van Dongen (Cornelis Theodorus Maria Van Dongen)

Place: Rotterdam

Born: 1877

Death: 1968

Biography:

Kees Van Dongen, born Cornelis Theodorus Maria van Dongen, was a renowned Dutch painter and one of the prominent figures of the Fauvist movement. Born on January 26, 1877, in Delfshaven, Rotterdam, Netherlands, Van Dongen is celebrated for his vibrant and sensuous portraits.

Early Life and Career

Van Dongen's artistic journey began at a young age. He was largely self-taught, with some training at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rotterdam. In 1897, he moved to Paris, where he became acquainted with the works of Paul Cézanne, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, and other influential artists of the time.

Fauvist Movement and Notable Works

As a Fauvist painter, Van Dongen was known for his bold and expressive use of color. Some of his notable works include Saida (a portrait of a woman with a crimson-red face) and The Beach at Deauville (a depiction of the French seaside resort). These paintings showcase Van Dongen's unique style, characterized by flat fields of vibrant color and bold outlines. Famous Paintings:

• Saida: A portrait of a woman with a crimson-red face, dark brown eyes, and a black and white garment.
• The Beach at Deauville: A depiction of the French seaside resort, showcasing Van Dongen's bold use of color.
• Miss France: A portrait of Yvette Labrousse, who won the Miss Lyon beauty contest in 1929 and represented France in the 1930 Miss World contest.

Museums and Collections

Van Dongen's works can be found in various museums and collections, including The Museum Huis ten Bosch in The Hague, Netherlands. This museum features an impressive collection of over 500 works spanning different periods and styles. To explore more of Van Dongen's artwork and learn about his life, visit Kees Van Dongen (Cornelis Theodorus Maria Van Dongen) on Wikioo.org. For a deeper understanding of the Fauvist movement and its key figures, check out The Museum Huis ten Bosch (The Hague, Netherlands) - A Comprehensive Guide on Wikioo.org.