Intelligence Squared
Re-examining the Life of Paul Gauguin, with Sue Prideaux
Jan 13, 2025
Sue Prideaux, an award-winning biographer known for her works on luminaries like Nietzsche and Munch, dives deep into the life of Paul Gauguin. The discussion reveals the complex legacy of this 19th-century artist, exploring his controversial relationships in Tahiti and the impact of colonialism on his work. Prideaux shares insights from Gauguin's recently uncovered memoir and his connections with Polynesian cultural practices. She sheds light on his dual role as both an advocate for indigenous identity and a figure of contention in art history.
55:20
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights the need to reassess Paul Gauguin's legacy by examining his exploitative relationships within the historical context of race, gender, and colonialism.
- Recent discoveries of Gauguin's handwritten memoirs provide a nuanced perspective on his life, challenging simplistic moral judgments about his controversial actions.
Deep dives
Gauguin's Controversial Legacy
Paul Gauguin's legacy is increasingly scrutinized in contemporary discussions surrounding race, gender, and colonialism. The podcast highlights how exhibitions have labeled Gauguin as a problematic figure due to his exploitative relationships with young girls during his time in Tahiti. Critics have drawn parallels between his actions and those of notorious figures, showcasing a growing movement to reassess historical artists through modern ethical lenses. This reevaluation raises complex questions about how one can appreciate art while grappling with the troubling aspects of the artist's life.
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