Meaning: The quote "Civilization is what makes you sick" is attributed to the French post-impressionist artist Paul Gauguin. Gauguin is known for his bold and colorful paintings that often depicted scenes from his travels to exotic locations, particularly Tahiti. However, he was also a controversial figure known for his rejection of Western society and his romanticized view of primitive cultures. This quote reflects his disillusionment with modern civilization and his belief in the corrupting influence of industrialization and materialism.

In order to fully understand the meaning behind Gauguin's quote, it is important to delve into the context of his life and work. Gauguin was born in 1848 in Paris, France, and worked as a successful stockbroker before deciding to pursue art full-time. He was deeply influenced by the Impressionist movement, particularly the work of artists like Edgar Degas and Camille Pissarro. However, Gauguin eventually grew disillusioned with the commercialization of art and sought a more authentic and spiritual connection to his work.

This desire for authenticity led Gauguin to reject the constraints of Western civilization and seek inspiration from non-Western cultures. In 1891, he traveled to Tahiti, where he found a source of inspiration in the natural beauty and the simplicity of the indigenous people's way of life. Gauguin's paintings from this period often depicted idyllic scenes of Tahitian women and lush landscapes, reflecting his idealized vision of a more primal and untainted way of living.

The quote "Civilization is what makes you sick" can be interpreted as a rejection of the negative aspects of modernity and industrialization. Gauguin believed that the pursuit of wealth, material possessions, and societal norms had a detrimental effect on the human spirit. He saw Western civilization as a source of moral and spiritual decay, leading to an alienation from nature and a loss of the essential qualities that make us human.

Gauguin's critique of civilization can also be seen in the broader context of the late 19th century, a time of rapid industrialization and social upheaval. Many artists and thinkers of the period, such as the existentialist philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, expressed similar concerns about the dehumanizing effects of modern society. Gauguin's quote can be seen as an expression of his desire to return to a more authentic and unspoiled way of life, free from the trappings of civilization.

It is important to note that Gauguin's romanticized view of non-Western cultures has been criticized for its idealization and exoticism. His portrayal of Tahitian life has been seen as a product of his own fantasies and desires, rather than an accurate representation of the reality of the people and culture he encountered. Additionally, his rejection of Western civilization and embrace of a so-called "primitive" lifestyle can be seen as a form of cultural appropriation and a failure to truly understand and respect the complexities of non-Western societies.

In conclusion, the quote "Civilization is what makes you sick" encapsulates Paul Gauguin's rejection of the negative aspects of modern Western society and his idealization of a more primitive and authentic way of life. It reflects his belief in the corrupting influence of materialism and industrialization, as well as his longing for a return to a more spiritually fulfilling existence. However, it is important to critically examine Gauguin's perspective and recognize the complexities and limitations of his romanticized view of non-Western cultures.