As an art enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated with the works and lives of artists. Two such artists, Paul Gauguin, a French Post-Impressionist artist, and Edouard Deluc, a French film director, have particularly caught my attention.
Gauguin, known for his experimental use of color and synthetist style, was one of the leading figures of the Symbolist movement. His work was influential to the French avant-garde and many modern artists.
On the other hand, Edouard Deluc is a contemporary film director known for his visually stunning and emotionally evocative films.
Their paths crossed when Deluc directed “Gauguin: Voyage to Tahiti”, a film based on Gauguin’s experiences in Tahiti. The film takes inspiration from Gauguin’s travelogue “Noa Noa”, a vivid account of his experiences and observations during his first visit to Tahiti.
As someone who has read and watched both, I find the interplay between these two art forms fascinating.
The book and the movie not only provide a glimpse into Gauguin’s life and work but also offer a rich exploration of Tahitian culture and the transformative power of travel and art.
Who is who in Gauguin’s Noa Noa and Voyage to Tahiti
In order to understand the depth of Gauguin’s “Noa Noa†and Deluc’s “Voyage to Tahitiâ€, it is imperative to familiarize oneself with the central characters.
Gauguin himself is the primary character in both works, with his journey towards self-discovery and artistic evolution forming the crux of the narrative. His interactions with the Tahitian people, particularly the women, form an integral part of his journey.
Tehura, Gauguin’s young Tahitian wife, plays a significant role in both the book and the movie. She’s portrayed as a muse that influences Gauguin’s work and life profoundly.
Other characters include Gauguin’s friend and fellow artist, Charles Laval, and Jotefa, a Tahitian who becomes a crucial part of Gauguin’s life.
Laval provides a counterpoint to Gauguin’s radical perspectives, while Jotefa symbolizes the wisdom and spirituality of the Tahitian people.
A comparative summary of Gauguin’s Noa Noa and Voyage to Tahiti
Examining the book summary of “Noa Noa†and the movie summary of “Voyage to Tahiti†offers fascinating insights into Gauguin’s life and work.
Both narratives follow Gauguin’s journey from France to Tahiti, his struggles and triumphs, and his eventual transformation, both as a man and an artist.
“Noa Noaâ€, Gauguin’s personal account, provides an intimate look into his experiences, thoughts, and feelings. It captures the raw beauty of Tahiti, its people, their traditions, and their way of life.
Gauguin’s descriptions are vivid and evocative, painting a picture of Tahiti that is as exotic as it is enthralling.
Meanwhile, “Voyage to Tahiti†takes a more dramatic approach. Deluc’s depiction is visually stunning and emotionally charged.
The film portrays Gauguin’s internal conflicts, his struggles with isolation and societal norms, and his passionate pursuit of a new artistic vision.
The performances, particularly by Vincent Cassel as Gauguin and Tuheí¯ Adams as Tehura, are compelling and add depth to the narrative.
When and where Gauguin’s Noa Noa and Voyage to Tahiti take place
Both “Noa Noa” and “Voyage to Tahiti” are set in the late 19th century.
The narrative begins in France and then shifts to Tahiti. It was a time when Gauguin was disillusioned with the European “civilized†society and was seeking something more pure, more authentic. Tahiti, with its unspoiled beauty and unique culture, provided the perfect escape.
“Noa Noa”, written between 1893 and 1894, is an account of Gauguin’s first stay in Tahiti between 1891 and 1893.
The book is divided into eight chapters, each dedicated to a specific aspect of Tahitian life and culture. The narrative is set in Tahiti’s capital, Papeete, and its surrounding areas.
“Voyage to Tahiti”, released in 2017, follows the same timeline as “Noa Noa”. It focuses on Gauguin’s initial years in Tahiti and his subsequent return to France.
The film’s locations include Papeete and its outskirts, the lush Tahitian jungles, and the idyllic beaches, captured in all their breathtaking beauty.
Noteworthy quotes from Gauguin’s Noa Noa and Voyage to Tahiti
The book and the movie are filled with powerful quotes that provide a glimpse into Gauguin’s mind. In “Noa Noa”, Gauguin writes, “I had come to an unalterable decision – to leave everything and walk without knowing where.” This quote encapsulates Gauguin’s determination to seek a fresh perspective, regardless of the uncertainties that lay ahead.
In “Voyage to Tahiti”, Gauguin says, “We’ll never be able to paint like the child who has seen nothing but nature.” This line reflects Gauguin’s belief in the purity and authenticity of art that is untainted by societal influences.
A guide to the soundtrack of Voyage to Tahiti by Warren Ellis
The soundtrack of “Voyage to Tahiti”, composed by Warren Ellis, is a beautiful blend of traditional Tahitian music and modern symphonic elements.
Ellis’ score enhances the narrative’s emotional depth and complements the visual aesthetics of the film. Tracks like “Gauguin’s Theme” and “Tehura’s Theme” reflect the characters’ emotional journeys and the dynamic between them.
Curiosities and interesting facts about Gauguin’s Noa Noa and Voyage to Tahiti
While “Noa Noa” and “Voyage to Tahiti” provide a compelling narrative of Gauguin’s life, they also offer interesting facts about Tahitian culture and Gauguin’s artistic process.
For instance, “Noa Noa” introduces readers to traditional Tahitian concepts like “tabu” and “mana”. The book also reveals Gauguin’s unique process of creating woodcuts, a technique he adopted during his Tahitian sojourn.
In “Voyage to Tahiti”, viewers can witness Gauguin’s transition from Impressionism to Symbolism, a pivotal phase in his artistic journey. The film also uses Tahitian language in several scenes, lending authenticity to the narrative.
Explaining the ending of Gauguin’s Noa Noa and Voyage to Tahiti
The ending of both “Noa Noa” and “Voyage to Tahiti” is a poignant reflection of Gauguin’s journey. In “Noa Noa”, Gauguin leaves Tahiti and returns to France, armed with a new artistic vision and a deeper understanding of himself.
However, he also leaves behind a part of him in Tahiti, encapsulated in his art and his memories of Tehura.
In “Voyage to Tahiti”, the ending is more dramatic. Gauguin, tormented by ill health and financial issues, leaves Tehura and Tahiti and returns to France. Despite his physical departure, his spirit remains in Tahiti, as represented by his art.
Potential for a remake, sequel, or spin-off
Given the richness of Gauguin’s life and his transformative journey in Tahiti, there is considerable potential for a remake, sequel, or spin-off. A sequel could explore Gauguin’s later years in Tahiti, his artistic evolution, and his eventual death.
A spin-off could delve into Tehura’s life after Gauguin’s departure. A remake could offer a contemporary take on Gauguin’s journey, exploring themes like cultural appropriation and the artist-muse relationship.
Other media by Edouard Deluc
Edouard Deluc, known for his visually stunning and emotionally evocative films, has directed other notable works like “Mariage í Mendoza” and “Welcome to Argentina”.
Like “Voyage to Tahiti”, these films explore complex relationships and emotive narratives, set against visually stunning landscapes.
Similar media to Gauguin’s Noa Noa and Voyage to Tahiti
For those intrigued by Gauguin’s “Noa Noa†and Deluc’s “Voyage to Tahitiâ€, other similar works like “The Moon and Sixpence†by W. Somerset Maugham and the film “Lust for Life†directed by Vincente Minnelli offer similar explorations of artists’ lives.
The life and works of Paul Gauguin
Paul Gauguin’s life was as vibrant and complex as his art. Born in Paris, Gauguin initially pursued a career in the navy and later in the stock market before embracing art full-time.
His works, known for their bold colors, symbolic imagery, and innovative techniques, revolutionized the art world. His time in Tahiti marked a significant phase in his artistic journey, influencing his style and themes.
Other notable works by Paul Gauguin
Other than “Noa Noa”, Gauguin’s artistry is evident in his numerous paintings like “Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?”, “The Yellow Christ”, “Vision After the Sermon”, and “Tahitian Women on the Beach”.
Each of these works reflects Gauguin’s unique style and his ability to blend reality with symbolism.
Similar media to Noa Noa
For those interested in “Noa Noaâ€, similar works like Robert Louis Stevenson’s “In the South Seas” and Jack London’s “South Sea Tales” provide equally vivid and insightful accounts of life in the South Pacific.
Book club questions for Gauguin’s Noa Noa and Voyage to Tahiti
For book clubs discussing “Noa Noa†and “Voyage to Tahitiâ€, questions could include: How does Gauguin’s journey influence his artistic evolution? How does Deluc portray Gauguin’s relationship with Tehura? What insights do the works provide into Tahitian culture?
Gauguin’s Noa Noa in video games
Interestingly, Gauguin’s “Noa Noa” has been referenced in video games like “Civilization V” and “Call of the Sea”.
These games incorporate elements of Gauguin’s art and his Tahitian experiences, offering players a unique, interactive experience of the artist’s world.
A travel guide to visit the film locations of Voyage to Tahiti
For the adventurous, a trip to Tahiti, offering a visit to the film locations of “Voyage to Tahitiâ€, can be a thrilling experience.
Locations include the capital Papeete, the lush jungles, and the idyllic beaches.
The trip provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in Tahitian culture and experience the beauty that inspired Gauguin.
Conclusion
Gauguin’s “Noa Noa” and Deluc’s “Voyage to Tahiti” offer a fascinating exploration of Gauguin’s life and work, Tahitian culture, and the transformative power of art.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a cinephile, or just a curious reader, these works provide a rich, immersive experience that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page or the credits have rolled.
