In The Footsteps of Gauguin and Brel in Hiva Oa - A Glimpse Into The Alluring Heart of French Polynesia

If you fantasize about escaping to an idyllic, isolated paradise, walking amidst the landscape immortalized by famous creators, then there’s no place better than Hiva Oa. Nestled in the remote Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia, Hiva Oa was once the refuge of famed painter Paul Gauguin and music legend Jacques Brel. In this journey, we invite you to walk in the footsteps of these iconic artists, immersing yourselves in the beauty, tranquility, and rich Polynesian culture of Hiva Oa.

The Enchanting Hiva Oa - A Place Where Legends Found Solace

Located about 1,000 miles northeast of Tahiti, Hiva Oa is often referred to as ‘The Garden of the Marquesas,’ renowned for its spectacular landscapes that provided a canvas of inspiration to both Gauguin and Brel. Verdant mountains, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring valleys gracefully meet the rugged coastline and sweeping beaches - Hiva Oa is a natural masterpiece, untouched by mass tourism.

Paul Gauguin - Capturing The Spirit of Tahiti

Paul Gauguin, the French artist famed for his impressionistic paintings, spent the last years of his life in Hiva Oa. Desperately seeking an untouched paradise to paint his dreams, Gauguin found it in the secluded valleys and the turquoise waters of Hiva Oa. Gauguin’s powerful and emotive works deeply reflected the Tahitian way of life, the essence of Polynesian culture and the mystical allure of its women. His most notable works include Women of Tahiti, and Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?

To pay tribute to his life’s work, visit the Espace Culturel Paul Gauguin. Although not featuring any original Gauguin’s works, the museum offers replicas of his paintings along with exhibits from his time in French Polynesia.

Jacques Brel - Singing the Song of The Islands

Jacques Brel, the legendary Belgian singer-songwriter, chose the enchanting Hiva Oa as his final resting place. Infamous for his melancholic and often satiric ballads, Brel found solace in the serene atmosphere of Hiva Oa, where he spent the last years of his life sailing around the Marquesas Islands. It is claimed that the untouched beauty he found inspired pieces like Le Moribond and Ne me quitte pas.

Today, near the Paul Gauguin Cultural Centre, exists Espace Jacques Brel, a museum that commemorates his work and features his plane, Jojo. Take time to immerse yourself in Brel’s music, to appreciate its stirring lyrics truly and grasp how deeply Polynesian life influenced his craft.

In The Footsteps of Gauguin and Brel – Experiencing Hiva Oa

The captivating landscapes and profound cultural riches of Hiva Oa can only truly be experienced by visiting. Imagine yourself wandering along the magnificent beaches, exploring mysterious ancient Polynesian sites, and encountering the magnificent mē’ae I’ipona and its massive stone tiki, the largest in French Polynesia. The serenity of the island might make you understand why Gauguin and Brel chose this as their sanctuary.

The allure of Hiva Oa extends beyond its natural beauty to its unique Polynesian culture. The warm, friendly locals still practice traditional Polynesian crafts, and the island’s history echos through the rhythm of tribal dances and music.

The Takeaway

In the footsteps of Gauguin and Brel, Hiva Oa promises a sensory journey into French Polynesia’s heart. Its spectacular landscape, rich with cultural charm and artistic heritage, is a timeless testament to the island’s enchantment. Whether an art enthusiast or simply a traveler chasing off-the-beaten-path destinations, Hiva Oa is an island filled with unique inspiration, beckoning the most discerning of explorers.