28 Aug 2002

Plans in French Polynesian to mark Gauguin's death

4:39 pm on 28 August 2002

French Polynesia's Marquesas islands want to mark next year's centenary of Paul Gauguin's death by attracting contemporary artists to the island of Hiva Oa where he is buried.

The project for a cultural centre was outlined during a visit to the island by the French minister in charge of overseas territories, Brigitte Girardin.

It aims to provide a venue for artists to work and live, with the local mayor saying a commission will be appointed to choose applicants.

Paul Gauguin died in the Marquesas on May the 8th 1903 eight years after settling in the Pacific.

Next year, the island group also wants to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the death of the singer, Jacques Brel, who is also buried in the Marquesas.