The Call

"The Call" is a powerful oil on fabric painting created by Paul Gauguin in 1902. This work exemplifies the artist's late career focus on expressive color and simplified forms, characteristic of Post-Impressionism in France at the turn of the century. Gauguin frequently sought inspiration outside the confines of European academic tradition, resulting in works that merge Symbolist concerns with scenes inspired by his life in the South Pacific. Executed just a year before his death, this piece reflects a synthesis of European modernism and non-Western aesthetics, utilizing a bold color palette and flattened perspective that resists traditional academic depth.

The composition features the strong contour lines and deliberate use of color typical of Gauguin's mature style. While the specific subject matter often lends itself to complex interpretation, the vibrancy of the pigments and the simplified positioning of figures generate a sense of deep psychological weight or narrative significance, common to the Symbolist movement. The painting provides a key insight into the final phase of Gauguin’s artistic journey, showcasing his mastery of synthesizing decorative pattern with emotional intensity.

This significant canvas currently resides in the permanent collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it serves as a central example of early modernist painting originating from France. As the artist died in 1903, works such as The Call have entered the public domain in many jurisdictions, making high-quality reproductions and fine art prints accessible for study and appreciation globally.