Mahna no varua ino (The Devil Speaks), from the Noa Noa Suite 1894

Paul Gauguin created this woodcut, titled *Mahna no varua ino*, as part of his *Noa Noa Suite*. These images reflect his experiences and impressions during his time in Tahiti. Here, we see Gauguin engaging with the visual language of colonialism. As he grapples with the complexities of cultural exchange, he presents a scene shrouded in ambiguity, where figures huddle around a mysterious presence. Is it a spirit, a demon, or something else entirely? The title translates to "The Devil Speaks," yet what does the devil say? What does he represent? Gauguin was a man of his time; his vision of Tahiti was shaped by the colonial gaze. Yet, these woodcuts can be viewed as attempts to move past stereotypes. Through their raw emotional power and evocative imagery, they challenge us to confront the complexities of cultural encounter, desire, and representation.