Visitors of Seattle often look forward to sightseeing spots such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Gas Works Park, but now… Gauguin? The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is hosting a new exhibit at the downtown location, “Gauguin and Polynesia: An Elusive Paradise.” From now through Apr. 29, visitors and art lovers alike can experience the art of French artist Paul Gauguin.
Gauguin was a post-impressionist painter, and is revered as an important contributor to the symbolist movement in the late 1800s. He was largely influenced by his exposure to many diverse cultures growing up, and in his later life he moved to Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands, where he was influenced the native inhabitants of Polynesia.
Advanced art teacher at Bothell High, Cindra Avery, is especially excited to see the exhibit. She says, “I particularly like Gauguin’s art. I like the subject matter and color palette.”
The exhibit consists of about 60 of Gauguin’s paintings, sculptures and works on paper, on loan from other museums and private collections. However, the focus is not entirely on Gauguin. The exhibit also houses 60 pieces of Polynesian art and sculptures. Though many of Gauguin’s works are the highlight of the exhibit, the show’s intention, unlike previous presentations, is to reveal the complex relationship between Gauguin’s art and the culture of Polynesia.
The Art department at Bothell is planning a field trip to the exhibit in mid-March for current art students. Avery says “I’m really looking forward to the exhibit. I have been really impressed with SAM’s staging of past exhibits, like Picasso last year. It should be well worth seeing.”
Many students, including those in advanced art, are also excited to see Gauguin’s work. Senior Vanessa Teeter is planning to see it; “Any of the exhibits that they have at SAM are good. It’s a different taste of art than other museums in the area.” Similarly, senior Laural Kreis is excited to visit the exhibit. She says, “I always love seeing the styles of different artists and pick up new techniques and styles.” Senior Carly Lynch also has high hopes for the exhibit, “I always like to see what is at SAM that is featured.”
SAM (1300 First Avenue, Seattle) will be the only stop in the U. S. for “Gauguin and Polynesia: An Elusive Paradise,” and SAM will divert from its usual schedule. For the duration of the exhibit, SAM will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, as well as its regular Wednesday to Sunday hours (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). The exhibit will be open until 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday evenings.
*Ticket pricing: $23 for adults, $18 for students with ID.
