Gauguin: Maker of Myth

Gauguin as storyteller is the artist we discover in Gauguin: Maker of Myth, an exhibition at Tate Modern which brings together over 100 works by the famous Post-Impressionist artist. Surprisingly, given that Gauguin is such a recognised household name, this is the first major exhibition in London to be devoted to his work in more than 50 years. Gauguin: Maker of Myth features many of his iconic works through which he explored ideas around religion, fable, myth and tradition. Prominent pieces include Vision of the Sermon, inspired by his early years in Brittany, Martinique and Arles. Meanwhile later works like Teha?amana has Many Parents remind us of his self-imposed exile in Tahiti and Gauguin's new found life in the South Seas. A highlight of the exhibition is an entire room dedicated to his self-portraits such as Self-portrait as Christ in the Garden of Olives and the later Self-portrait with Manau tu papau which can usually be seen at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, which has an impressive collection of his works. Most significantly, this display of works which covers his entire career shows how he could turn his hand to a wide range of media from painting to ceramics, carvings to decorated objects. In addition, rarely-seen illustrated letters, sketchbooks and memoirs are also displayed enabling visitors to learn more about Gauguin the man.