Mahna no Varua Ino 1894 - 1895

Editor: So, this is "Mahna no Varua Ino" by Paul Gauguin, made between 1894 and 1895. It's a woodcut print. The stark contrast and shadowy figures give it such an unsettling, dreamlike quality. What do you see in this piece, especially given its historical context? Curator: It’s essential to understand Gauguin's fascination with non-Western cultures and his colonial gaze. "Mahna no Varua Ino," which translates to "The Devil Speaks," uses a symbolic language derived from his time in Tahiti. We see the figures rendered with a rawness achieved through the woodcut technique itself, referencing so-called ‘primitive’ art. How do you interpret the title's implication juxtaposed with the imagery presented? Editor: It's interesting that you mention Gauguin's colonial perspective. I guess the title leads me to think about the imposition of Western religious beliefs onto Tahitian culture and maybe the disruption it caused. Curator: Exactly. Gauguin's work often romanticizes and exoticizes Tahitian life, while simultaneously reflecting his own anxieties and desires. The ‘devil’ isn’t necessarily a figure from Tahitian belief, but perhaps Gauguin's interpretation or even projection onto it. The art market, and its values at the time, rewarded his vision, which ultimately reinforced these power dynamics. Editor: I hadn't thought about how the art market played a role in shaping his perspective, and consequently, the interpretation of his art. That's quite thought-provoking! Curator: Considering art as part of a larger socio-political context allows us to challenge these historical power dynamics, rather than passively accepting the artist's intention. Reflecting critically allows us to learn, grow, and contextualize his choices. Editor: This gives me so much to think about! I'm starting to view this familiar piece in an entirely different light. Thanks for your insights!