The Gauguin Dilemma

What if an artist painted the very crime he was accused of committing… and now his works of art are worth millions of dollars? The Gauguin Dilemma tells the extraordinary story of one of history’s most lucrative and controversial artists. Experts sort myth from fact and we learn the true cost of his legacy for Pasifika people.

Paul Gauguin broke the rules about colour and line. But the details of his personal life are deeply controversial. By today’s standards, Gauguin’s relationships with his Polynesian muses would be criminal. But is it fair to judge history by today’s standards? Or should we judge him by the mark he left on the islands he visited? Featuring: screenwriter and author Maria Lewis | Prof. Elizabeth C. Childs | founder of Girl Museum Ashley Remer

Though Gauguin died poor and alone, his work When Will You Marry? is one of the most expensive paintings ever sold. Who were the men pulling the strings? What is the price of fame? In this episode, we follow the money. Featuring: artist and curator Rosanna Raymond MNZM | artist and navigator Tahiarii Pariente | Associate Professor Caroline Vercoe | founder Girl Museum Ashley Remer | Prof. Elizabeth C. Childs

Poet Selina Tusituala Marsh tells the story of when she walked into a bar… and became the joke and artist Angela Tiatia finds herself at the centre of a social media pile on. This episode explores what it means to reclaim your story.Featuring: poet Selina Tusitala Marsh | artist Angela Tiatia