The Art of Collaboration

Having read ‘The Moon and Sixpence’ by Somerset Maugham several years back, I was naturally curious to view the exhibition of Paul Gauguin’s work at the Tate Modern in London. As I jostled in the crowd to view his prolific genius, I was amazed at the sheer number of people who had turned up for the exhibition. An eclectic crowd comprised of art connoisseurs, students, accidental tourists, corporate executives, families, curious onlookers. I could not but help wonder how the work of a single genius could bring such a diverse group of people together in unison and admiration.
As I studied each work of art – I do not use the term ‘painting’, as Gauguin dabbled in paintings, sketches, sculptures, ceramics, wood printing - I realized that these had come together for a brief period of time, as part of an endeavor to present the entire collection of this artist under one roof. These artifacts belonged to diverse museums and private collectors from across the world, acquired in myriad ways spanning decades. I tried to imagine the careful orchestration in convincing all these guardians of art to relinquish their treasures temporarily so that this unique experience could be created.
It struck me that collaboration can occur across hundreds of individuals and organizations, without ever having to meet. Letting go of the little pieces of jigsaw, so that others can see the puzzle in its entirety. Knowingly or unknowingly, these artistic pieces of jigsaw were yielded for a larger purpose, creating a new experience for many who possibly did not possess a piece.
I wonder what would Gauguin have thought, if he were alive to see this. Perhaps he too would have been amazed by the experience of seeing all his work in unison, music written for each instrument at different times, never intending it to come together as a brilliant symphony for a future audience.
I left the exhibition content, the symphony imbibed forever.