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Winter Escape: Seattle Art Museum's Gauguin and Polynesia: An Elusive Paradise

You don't need to fly thousands of miles to experience the sunny islands of French Polynesia this winter. Tickets are on sale now for Seattle Art Museum's upcoming show, Gauguin and Polynesia: An Elusive Paradise. The exhibition opens Feb. 9 and runs through April 29, 2012 -- it's the only stop in the United States.

Organized by the Art Centre Basel, the show highlights the complex relationship between Paul Gauguin's work and the art and culture of Polynesia. It includes nearly 60 of Gauguin's brilliantly hued paintings, sculptures and works on paper -- which are displayed alongside 60 major examples of forceful Polynesian sculpture. The works are on loan from some of the world's most prestigious museums and private collections.

To avoid disappointment and long lines, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) recommends purchasing tickets in advance through its online ticketing system (there are no online fees). Not all tickets are allocated online -- a number are reserved for sale at SAM each day. There are no telephone orders. Tickets include a free audio guide while supplies last, along with free admission to the Seattle Asian Art Museum within one week. A complimentary coat check is offered, and on Thursdays and Fridays from 5-9 PM, ticket prices are reduced by $3. SAM members may visit as often as they like. 

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Win a trip to French Polynesia: If you become a SAM member or renew/upgrade an existing membership during January and February 2012, you could win a trip to French Polynesia. Your name will be automatically entered to win a 7-night cruise for two aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin. A winner will be randomly selected on March 1 and announced on March 2, 2012. The package from Paul Gauguin Cruises includes:

  • 7-night cruise for two in a double-occupancy window stateroom
  • All meals
  • Gratuities for ship's staff
  • Use of sports-related equipment and facilities
  • Complimentary beverages and wines

Note: If you renewed your membership in SAM between July 1-December 31, 2011, send in your name and membership number to membership@seattleartmuseum.org to be entered in the drawing.

Seattle Art Museum
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, Seattle Travel Examiner

Sue is an award-winning freelance writer and photographer whose travel features appear in numerous newspapers, magazines and online publications. She's also an on-air contributor to Around the World Travel Radio and writes a blog about all things Canadian titled Closet Canuck. She loves telling...

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