“Fitzroy Street Nude No. 2” is a significant artwork by artist Matthew Smith, completed in 1916 during the Fauvism art movement. This genre of the artwork is categorized as a nude painting (nu).
The artwork depicts a nude female figure seated on a wooden chair, rendered in bold and vibrant colors that are characteristic of Fauvism. The figure’s body is highlighted with exaggerated and expressive brushstrokes of green, yellow, and orange, creating a dynamic interplay of colors. The background consists of geometric shapes and contrasting hues including pink, blue, and red, giving the whole composition an energetic and somewhat abstract atmosphere. The figure’s pose, with one arm resting behind her head, exudes a sense of relaxed confidence. The stark contrasts and vivid palette showcase the emotional intensity and liberated use of color that define Fauvism.
