Paul Gauguin is the quintessential artist rebel, abandoning the responsibilities of conventional life for his art. Leaving behind a wife & five children, Gauguin traveled to Tahiti in order to fully realize his artistic dream. As an explanation, he wrote to his friend, Emile Bernard, saying,"Terrible itching for the unknown makes me do things I shouldn't." At least he showed an awareness for his conflict. More of his conflicted thoughts regarding this subject can be heard in the following video produced by the Tate Modern in London. In honor of the currant Gauguin Retrospective , which runs from September 30 through January 16, the Tate has put together a thoughtful portrait of the artist, using his own words. Taken from letters, written to family & friends, he gives us insight into the artist & the man. I think, in all of us, there lies a desire to run away to devote ourselves to our passion, whatever it may be. However, few of us actually act upon it. Perhaps that is why the myth behind Gauguin looms so large. Although, he certainly does not score high marks as a husband & father, his body of work is a treasure to behold. After closing at the Tate, the exhibition will travel to the National Gallery in Washinton D C from February 27 to June 5, 2011.
Interesting intro to this film Sally!
ReplyDeleteWould like to learn more about Gauguin...his passion certainly brought huge tensions and demands... his diaries and especially work from Tahiti has been an interesting counterpoint to the Euro-centric vision of the time.
Have a lovely week won't you!
S