Paul Gauguin, the French artist with an insatiable thirst for adventure and an unshakeable desire to break from tradition, is often remembered for his bold departure from the conventional art world of the late 19th century. Born in 1848, Gauguin was one of the key figures in post-Impressionism, but his style was anything but conventional. He didn’t just paint pretty pictures—he painted the vibrant, emotional landscapes of his imagination.

Gauguin started his career in finance, of all things, before deciding that the stock market was not nearly as fulfilling as exploring the world through art. He took up painting seriously in his 30s, but it wasn’t until he crossed paths with Vincent van Gogh (and their infamous time in Arles) that he fully committed to his artistic vision. The two had a famously tumultuous relationship—Gauguin, the free-spirited rebel, and van Gogh, the intense, tortured soul. Their collaboration ultimately ended with the infamous ear incident (which, let’s be honest, was more van Gogh’s doing than Gauguin’s).

But what really set Gauguin apart wasn’t his tumultuous friendships or his bohemian lifestyle. It was his ability to infuse his works with deep symbolism and color. He was one of the first to adopt the idea of using color not just to depict reality but to express emotion and meaning. His works, such as Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?, are masterpieces of vivid, dream-like color and imagery that explore themes of life, death, and the human condition, all in the lush landscapes of Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands where he lived in later years.

In short, Paul Gauguin was the artistic rebel who followed his own path, both in life and in art. Whether he was in France, the Caribbean, or the South Pacific, he sought out the soul of the places he lived and the people he encountered, leaving behind a legacy of art that still resonates today. He didn’t just paint pictures—he painted visions, emotions, and a new way of seeing the world.