APPOART

“I shut my eyes in order to see”

Eugène Henri Paul Gauguin, born on June 7, 1848, in Paris, is a French painter renowned for his pivotal role in the Post-Impressionist movement. His life and artistic career were marked by a series of travels, spiritual exploration, and a continuous evolution of style.

Gauguin spent his early years in Peru after his family moved there following the death of his father. He returned to France as a teenager and worked in various fields, including commerce and insurance, while nurturing a growing interest in art. It was only after the financial collapse of his business in 1883 that he decided to devote himself entirely to painting.

Artistic style:

Gauguin is famous for his bold use of color and experimentation with new visual forms. His works depart from traditional Impressionism, embracing a synthetic style that emphasizes simplification of shapes and the use of flat, vibrant colors. His art often features an exotic and symbolic atmosphere, influenced by his experiences in Brittany and the islands of the Pacific, particularly Tahiti.

Most important works:

1. Vision After the Sermon (1888)

This painting is one of Gauguin’s most famous works and marks a pivotal moment in his artistic development. It depicts a group of Breton women in prayer, experiencing a vision of Jacob wrestling with an angel. The bold use of color and the flat, decorative style reflect Gauguin’s departure from Impressionism towards a more symbolic and synthetic approach.

2. Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going? (1897-1898)

Considered one of his masterpieces, this large canvas encapsulates Gauguin’s philosophical inquiries into existence and spirituality. It features Tahitian figures in a lush landscape, representing the cycle of life from birth to death. The painting is notable for its vibrant colors and complex composition, embodying Gauguin’s quest for meaning in life.

3. Tahitian Women on the Beach (1891)

This work showcases Gauguin’s fascination with Tahitian culture and women, characterized by its bright colors and exotic subject matter. The painting reflects his desire to escape European civilization and find authenticity in non-Western cultures.

4. Self-Portrait with Halo and Snake (1889)

In this self-portrait, Gauguin presents himself with a halo, symbolizing his artistic aspirations and spiritual journey. The use of vivid colors and the symbolic elements reflect his interest in mysticism and personal identity.

Exhibitions:

1. Gauguin’s World: Tōna Iho, Tōna Ao

Location: National Gallery of Australia, Canberra

Dates: June 29 to October 7, 2024

This exhibition is noted as one of the most ambitious ever staged by the National Gallery. It will showcase over 140 works by Gauguin, tracing his artistic journey from his Impressionist beginnings to his later works in French Polynesia. The exhibition aims to provide insights into Gauguin’s life, his artistic influences, and the complexities of his legacy. Curated by Henri Loyrette, it will also include public programs and discussions addressing Gauguin’s controversial interactions in Polynesia and the implications of his work today.

2. Gauguin in the World

Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Dates: November 3, 2024, to February 16, 2025

This exhibition is the only U.S. venue for a comprehensive presentation of Gauguin’s work in over 35 years, featuring more than 150 pieces including paintings, sculptures, prints, and writings. It will explore Gauguin’s artistic networks and influences while highlighting both his historical impact and contemporary relevance.