Gauguin

Paul Gauguin, a struggling artist, found success in painting and developed a unique Primitivist style in his works on Tahiti. His friendship with Vincent van Gogh ended violently, and he died alone in the Marquesas Islands. Gauguin's influence on French avant-garde artists, such as Picasso and Matisse, became apparent after his work was curated and exhibited in Paris.

Format: Hardback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2020
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

Paul Gauguin, a renowned artist who lived from 1848 to 1903, had a tumultuous and unconventional life. His ventures into finance, the French Navy, and a tarpaulin salesman job in Copenhagen, where he struggled to speak Danish, did not prove fruitful. However, his passion for painting emerged in his spare time in 1873, and he took part in the Paris Salon in 1876. Three years later, he exhibited alongside renowned artists such as Pissarro, Degas, and Monet. Gauguin was known for his querulous nature, penchant for hard drinking, and self-description as a savage. His close friendship with Vincent van Gogh, another temperamental artist, reached a dramatic climax in 1888 when van Gogh allegedly confronted Gauguin with a razor blade and later cut off his own ear.

Following this incident, Gauguin sought solace in Tahiti, intending to escape the artificial and conventional aspects of society. On Tahiti, his joy in the islands' nature, native people, and figurative images flourished, leading to a prolific output of paintings and prints. His distinct Primitivist style, characterized by bold colors and expressive brushwork, particularly resonated with the curves of Tahitian women. Gauguin's influence on the art world only began to gain recognition when a smart art dealer curated and exhibited his work in Paris. This exposure particularly impacted the new breed of French avant-garde artists, including Picasso and Matisse, who were deeply inspired by his unique vision and artistic approach.

This book serves as an essential introduction to the colorful life of Paul Gauguin, delving into his artistic journey, personal relationships, and profound impact on the art world. It provides a comprehensive account of his artistic development, from his early works in Paris to his time in Tahiti, and highlights the significant contributions he made to the evolution of modern art. Through his paintings, prints, and personal writings, Gauguin left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists to this day.

Weight: 564g
Dimension: 219 x 266 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836532235