The Call — Eugène Henri Paul Gauguin

The Call

Immerse yourself in Gauguin's 'The Call,' a vibrant Post-Impressionist painting depicting Polynesian figures amidst lush foliage, exploring themes of connection and culture.


Eugène Henri Paul Gauguin (1848 - 1903)

Paul Gauguin: A revolutionary Post-Impressionist painter known for bold colors, exotic subjects & Symbolist themes. Explore his journey from finance to artistic legend.

The Call: A Glimpse into Polynesian Life Through Gauguin's Eyes

  • Subject Matter: "The Call" depicts three Polynesian figures engaged in what appears to be a moment of communication or ritual within a lush, tropical environment. The scene offers a window into Gauguin’s fascination with and interpretation of Polynesian culture.
  • Historical Context: Painted during Gauguin's time in Tahiti (1891-1893), "The Call" reflects his desire to escape European civilization and find inspiration in what he perceived as a more primal, authentic way of life. This period marked a significant shift in Gauguin’s artistic style, moving away from traditional Western aesthetics towards a more symbolic and expressive approach.

Style and Technique: Post-Impressionism and Synthetism

  • Post-Impressionist Influence: The artwork embodies the characteristics of Post-Impressionism, prioritizing emotional expression and subjective experience over strict realism. Gauguin deliberately distorts perspective and simplifies forms to convey a particular mood or feeling.
  • Synthetism: Gauguin employed Synthetism, a style he developed with Émile Bernard, which involved simplifying objects into flat planes of color and reducing detail to emphasize symbolic meaning. This is evident in the blocky figures and flattened landscape.
  • Materials and Technique: The painting utilizes oil paints on canvas, applied with visible brushstrokes that contribute to the textured surface. Gauguin's technique involves layering colors to create depth and intensity, though perspective remains deliberately limited.

Symbolism and Interpretation

  • The Figures: The three figures are central to the painting’s narrative. Their gestures and expressions suggest a moment of communication or spiritual connection. Gauguin often used Polynesian subjects to explore themes of spirituality, identity, and the relationship between humanity and nature.
  • Floral Elements: Flowers frequently appear in Gauguin's Tahitian paintings, symbolizing beauty, fertility, and the vibrancy of life. Their presence adds a layer of visual richness and reinforces the tropical setting.
  • The Tree: The large tree dominating the upper right corner serves as a vertical anchor within the composition. It can be interpreted as a symbol of strength, resilience, or connection to ancestral roots.

Emotional Impact and Legacy

  • Warmth and Exoticism: The predominantly warm color palette—dominated by reds, oranges, and yellows—creates an atmosphere of intense warmth and exoticism. This contributes to the painting’s overall appeal and evokes a sense of faraway lands.
  • Emotional Resonance: "The Call" resonates with viewers through its evocative depiction of human connection and spiritual exploration. Gauguin's ability to convey emotion through simplified forms and vibrant colors makes this piece both visually striking and deeply moving.
  • Artistic Influence: As a key figure in Post-Impressionism, Gauguin’s work significantly influenced subsequent generations of artists, including Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. "The Call" exemplifies his innovative approach to color and composition, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in art history.