Ramblings of a Wannabe Painter

Paul Gauguin

Paul Gauguin's "Ramblings of a Wannabe Painter" is an impassioned critique of art criticism, finally published in 1951, almost 50 years after his death. Gauguin unpacks the mistakes he perceived in art criticism and passionately defends the approach to art he believes in. The essay resonates as strongly today as it did over a century ago, offering an insightful perspective on art and criticism. Published as part of David Zwirner Books's new ekphrasis reader series, this edition aims to foster open dialogue between the worlds of writing and visual arts.