Artwork

Be in Love and You Will Be Happy

Be in Love and You Will Be Happy, by Paul Gauguin, 1898
Be in Love and You Will Be Happy, by Paul Gauguin, 1898

Be in Love and You Will Be Happy is a print by the Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Paul Gauguin's print 'Be in Love and You Will Be Happy' dates to around 1898. It is a black-and-white work held in the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a dreamlike scene with figures in various poses, some floating above others. The title 'Be in Love and You Will Be Happy' contrasts with the chaotic and unsettling mood, suggesting a complex exploration of emotions.

Technique & Style

Gauguin's work reflects his Synthetist approach, characterized by bold forms and symbolic meaning. The use of jagged lines, illegible text, and blurred figures creates a busy and unsettling atmosphere, diverging from naturalistic representation.

Context

Gauguin was a key figure in Post-Impressionism and Symbolism, experimenting with color and composition. This print showcases his innovative style, which emphasized emotional and symbolic content over realistic depiction.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Gauguin

Artist

Paul Gauguin

Eugène Henri Paul Gauguin (; French: ; 7 June 1848 – 8 May 1903) was a French painter, sculptor, printmaker, ceramist, and writer, whose work has been primarily associated with the Post-Impressionist and Symbolist movements.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.