Ia Orana Maria – Ave Maria

Gauguin was fascinated by the religious syncretism between traditional beliefs and Christianity in Tahiti. The artwork features local characteristics, such as the lush island vegetation in the background and exotic fruits in the foreground. The faces of the characters, with their pronounced features and unusual proportions, accentuate the primitivism of the composition.

"Ia Orana Maria" illustrates the encounter between Western and Tahitian culture in Gauguin's art, challenging the conventions of the Christian Annunciation. This painting embodies Gauguin's exploration of the Polynesian world, where he sought to capture the spirituality and beauty of Tahiti by blending Christian elements with Tahitian reality. The vibrant colors and bold use of floral motifs make this work an iconic example of Gauguin's style.