How did Paul Gauguin's time in Tahiti and Hiva Oa influence his art?

Paul Gauguin’s time in Tahiti and Hiva Oa was driven by a desire to escape Western corruption and immerse himself in what he perceived as a more authentic, "primitive" culture.12

In Tahiti, Gauguin sought to shed Western conventions by incorporating Oceanic iconography, using local titles for his works, and portraying spiritual, idyllic settings. His style evolved during this period; he moved away from forced "primitivism" toward more rounded, modeled forms and sinuous lines, resulting in luxuriant, poetic compositions with sophisticated tonal harmonies. His masterpiece from this era, Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?, exemplifies his deep contemplation of life and death.1

Upon moving to Hiva Oa in 1901, Gauguin continued to integrate his surroundings into his art. He built a home he called his "house of pleasure," which he decorated with elaborate carved friezes inspired by Maori works. As his health declined due to syphilis, he focused his remaining energy on drawing and writing his memoir, Avant et après.1