This 40-page illustrated catalog accompanied a major exhibition of the works of Paul Jacoulet held in Oct-Nov. 2007 at the Isla Art Center of the University of Guam. The catalog includes color illustrations of all 51 of Jacoulet’s wood-block prints from Micronesia and the “South Seas”, and over 50 illustrations of previously unpublished pencil sketches and watercolor paintings by Jacoulet, based on his travels through Micronesia.

Jacoulet made numerous trips through Micronesia in the 1930s, and produced portraits of islanders from Saipan, Rota, Tinian, Yap, Ulithi, Fais, Woleai, Palau, Angaur, Tobi, Sonsorol, Houk, Polowat, Chuuk, Satawan, Pohnpei, Kapingamarangi, Pingelap, Kosrae, and Jaluit.

These previously unpublished sketches and watercolor paintings are from the Jacoulet estate in Japan.

In addition, the catalog includes an original essay by exhibition curator, Dr. Don Rubinstein, who has worked closely with Jacoulet’s estate to stage the exhibition, and to bring to light new information on Jacoulet’s travels through Micronesia. The essay discusses analytically several themes in Jacoulet’s South Seas art work – symbolism in his use of flowers, cultural and historical significance in the content and details of the illustrations, and surreal and imagined aspects in Jacoulet’s vision of the islands. The essay also includes the names of many of the Micronesian islanders who sat as subjects for Jacoulet. The essay also includes excerpts from previously unpublished letters Jacoulet wrote from Micronesia.

From the Preface: Of all the foreign artists who have portrayed the people of Micronesia, Paul Jacoulet was without question the most productive, uniquely gifted, and internationally recognized.  His art trembles between two traditions, one rooted in 18th century Japanese print-making, with Utamaro as a leading influence, and the other inspired by 20th century European painting. Jacoulet was wont to say, “There are three Pauls: Paul Gauguin, Paul Cezanne, and Paul Jacoulet.” Especially in his “South Seas” voyages and visions, Jacoulet saw himself as an artistic kindred spirit of his admired Gauguin.

That catalog measures 8.5 × 11 inches. It is attractively designed, printed on high quality paper, and unopened in plastic wrapping. This catalog will appeal to Jacoulet collectors and scholars, and to people interested generally in Micronesia, and in how outside artists have conveyed a vision of Pacific Islanders through their art.

Catalog mailed via USPS First Class from Guam. International bidders please inquire about shipping cost to your location.