Paul Gauguin

Paul Gauguin was born on June 7, 1848, in Paris, France. His birth marks the beginning of the life of one of the most influential figures in the Post-Impressionist movement. Gauguin would go on to explore primal emotion and bold color in his works, significantly impacting the direction of modern art. Throughout his life, Gauguin sought to escape the constraints of Western civilization, ultimately developing a distinct, vibrant painting style that drew from many different cultures.

On October 23, 1888, Paul Gauguin arrived in Arles, France, to stay with Vincent van Gogh at the Yellow House. Their time together in Arles was both productive and tumultuous, as the two painters shared ideas and influenced each other's work, leading to significant developments in their art. However, their relationship was fraught with tension, culminating in the infamous incident where van Gogh cut off part of his own ear. The period Gauguin spent with van Gogh was critical in shaping both artists' approaches to color and form.

In April 1891, Paul Gauguin left France to embark on his first trip to Tahiti, seeking to escape European civilization and 'everything that is artificial and conventional.' This journey marked the beginning of a new phase in his life and art. In Tahiti, Gauguin immersed himself in the local culture, which greatly influenced his work, resulting in some of his most famous paintings. His use of bold colors and dramatic, expressive forms continued to evolve, leaving a lasting impact on future avant-garde movements.

On July 3, 1895, Paul Gauguin set sail for the South Seas, never to return to France. This final voyage marked the beginning of the last period of his artistic career, during which he created some of his most acclaimed works. Gauguin sought inspiration far from the trappings of Western society and found it in the lush landscapes and vibrant cultures of the islands. His art from this period reflects a deep connection with the indigenous traditions of Polynesia, characterized by his innovative use of color and form.

Paul Gauguin died on May 8, 1903, in Atuona, Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia, at the age of 54. His death marked the end of a life that was as colorful and tumultuous as the subjects of his art. Gauguin's legacy as a painter who defied convention in search of a more 'primitive' and 'pure' form of expression has endured well past his lifetime. His exploration of non-Western subjects and styles significantly impacted both European modernism and later Post-Impressionist artists, who viewed him as a pioneer in breaking away from traditional forms.

In 1919, a retrospective exhibition of Paul Gauguin's works was held at the Salon d'Automne in Paris, re-evaluating his contributions to the art world. The exhibition showcased many of his Tahitian works and played a critical role in restoring Gauguin's reputation, which had declined after his death. This renewed interest in his art helped cement his influence on later avant-garde movements, including Expressionism and Primitivism, highlighting his role as a forerunner in exploring exotic themes and innovative use of color.

On October 12, 1949, the Tate Gallery in London hosted a major retrospective of Paul Gauguin's work, emphasizing his revolutionary approach to form and color. This exhibition brought together many of Gauguin's Tahitian paintings, introducing his vibrant exploration of 'primitive' cultures to a wider audience. The retrospective reinforced Gauguin's standing as a central figure in the development of modern art and affirmed his influence on future artistic movements, encouraging a greater appreciation for his bold experimentation beyond traditional Western art.

In 1989, the centenary of Paul Gauguin's first voyage to Tahiti was celebrated with a series of exhibitions and scholarly works. These events provided new insights into his life and art, reaffirming his status as a pioneer in the exploration of non-Western cultures in art. A renewed scholarly focus during these centennial commemorations brought to light the complexities of Gauguin's legacy, including discussions on cultural appropriation and the influence of colonialism on his work. Gauguin's artistic contributions during his time in Tahiti remain a subject of fascination and critique in contemporary art discourse.

On February 27, 2004, a painting by Paul Gauguin, 'Maternité (II),' set a new record at a Sotheby's auction in London, selling for over $39 million. This event underscored the enduring value and appeal of Gauguin's work in the art market. The auction highlighted Gauguin's status as a master of Post-Impressionist art with a lasting legacy that continues to captivate art collectors and enthusiasts. 'Maternité (II)' exemplifies Gauguin's innovative use of color and fascination with both Tahitian themes and universal human experiences.

On February 6, 2015, the painting 'Nafea Faa Ipoipo (When Will You Marry?)' by Paul Gauguin was sold privately for approximately $300 million, setting a world record for an artwork. The sale took place amid ongoing discussions about Gauguin's complex legacy and the cultural implications of his work. This painting, completed during Gauguin's first stay in Tahiti, exemplifies his distinct style and interest in depicting Polynesian people and themes, highlighting his enduring impact on the art world and his intersection with global art markets.