Raoul Dufy (1877–1953) was a French painter and designer known for his radiant use of color and his cheerful depictions of leisure, music, and Mediterranean life. Associated early on with the Fauvist movement, Dufy developed a lyrical style characterized by swift, fluid brushwork, decorative composition, and a lightness of touch that made his paintings instantly recognizable.

He trained at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and was influenced by the bold color palettes of Matisse and the structural clarity of Cézanne. Over time, Dufy expanded into textiles, ceramics, and mural work, becoming one of the most versatile visual artists of his generation. His signature subjects—regattas, concert scenes, and sunlit cityscapes—embody a spirit of joy and elegance that remains deeply appealing.

Dufy’s work is held in prominent institutions such as the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Though often celebrated for his decorative flair, Dufy’s mastery of color theory and composition had a lasting impact on both fine art and design, securing his place as a central figure in 20th-century modernism.