At the Black Rocks, from the Suite of Late Wood-Block Prints 1898 - 1899

Editor: This is Paul Gauguin’s "At the Black Rocks" from his Suite of Late Wood-Block Prints, made around 1898-99. It’s a woodcut on paper, and the stark contrast really draws me in. What can you tell me about it? Curator: It’s compelling, isn’t it? Consider the labor involved in producing a woodcut at the turn of the century. The physical act of carving the block, the repetitive printing process—these speak volumes about the value Gauguin placed on craft. What do you make of his choice of this medium? Editor: I see it as…intentional. It wasn't the quickest way to reproduce images, surely? Curator: Exactly! And who was he printing these for? The "Suite of Late Wood-Block Prints" was intended for a select audience, and it really contrasts the accessibility of something like mass-produced lithographs. Gauguin elevates this traditionally folk medium, blurring the lines between "high" art and craft. What does the materiality – the texture and rawness – communicate to you? Editor: It almost feels…primitive? Like he’s trying to connect with something elemental, unrefined. Was that common then? Curator: Precisely. Consider also his context. He lived and worked far away from European urban centers. The act of creation and the distribution are a part of how this should be assessed as it reflects Gauguin's position relative to dominant art markets. Does the print change meaning once it goes from point A to point B? How might it be perceived and understood by different social actors? Editor: That makes so much sense! I never thought about how the printing process itself could be so meaningful. Thanks, that really opened my eyes. Curator: It’s about understanding the journey of the artwork, from its creation to its consumption. Considering process, material and social factors opens avenues into so much rich territory!