“The Racecourse of Deauville,” created by Raoul Dufy in 1950, is an oil painting on canvas. This artwork, measuring 75 x 81 cm, belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and exemplifies the genre painting style. The scene vividly encapsulates a racecourse in Deauville, presented with a characteristic naivety and simplicity.
The artwork captures the bustling atmosphere of a racecourse, with various figures and horses depicted in a somewhat whimsical and simplified manner, characteristic of Primitivism. The background showcases the greenery of the racecourse complemented by the architectural beauty of Deauville’s buildings under a vibrant sky. The color palette is rich yet gentle, with Dufy’s typical use of bold brushstrokes and fluid lines to convey movement and liveliness. The overall composition combines a keen observation of social activity with an innocent, almost childlike interpretation, creating a lively and engaging scene.
