Paul Gauguin Biography

Paul Gauguin (1848-1903) was a French post-Impressionist painter known for his innovative use of colour and symbolism, which significantly influenced modern art. Born in Paris, Gauguin spent much of his childhood in Peru where he experienced a privileged childhood. Following financial struggles, he returned to France and received a formal education. Initially, he pursued a career as a stockbroker while practicing art as a hobby, however, following the financial crisis of 1882, he made a pivotal decision to shift his focus entirely to painting.

Gauguin was heavily influenced by Impressionism but sought to break away from its emphasis on naturalism. He believed that colour should express emotion rather than merely replicate reality. This quest led him to develop a unique style characterized by bold colours, strong outlines, and an emphasis on flat shapes. His painting 'Vision After the Sermon' (1888) is a prime example of this innovative approach, showcasing a dramatic use of colour and a blend of reality and spirituality.

In search of inspiration and a new artistic direction, Gauguin travelled to Brittany in north-western France, where he became part of a group of artists who, like him, sought to capture the essence of rural life. His later move to Tahiti in 1891 was even more transformative. Drawn by the allure of its landscapes and culture, he produced some of his most famous works during this period, including 'Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?' (1897), a monumental piece that reflects his existential questions and deep connection to the island.

Gauguin left behind his wife Mette and five children when he began his new life in Tahiti. He is perhaps more infamously known for taking three child brides, one being 13 and the other two, 14. He had numerous children with them and infected some of them with syphilis, before he died aged 54. These 'child brides' served as models in many of his paintings.

Despite facing personal and financial struggles, Gauguin’s work garnered recognition posthumously. Today, he is celebrated as a pioneer of modern art, his legacy continuing to inspire artists around the world. His life and art remain a testament to the power of creativity that daringly seeks to explore and transcend conventional boundaries.