Vincent van Gogh: The Artist Behind the Starry Night

Vincent van Gogh - you've probably heard his name, right? And you might be familiar with his iconic works like 'Starry Night' and 'Sunflowers.' But do you know the person behind these masterpieces? That's who we're here to explore.

Also read: The Starry Night: Location 

Vincent van Gogh wasn't just a painter; he was a pioneer, pushing the boundaries of art with every stroke of his paintbrush. Despite living just 37 years, his artistic legacy continues to shape our understanding of creativity, passion, and the human condition.

But Van Gogh's life was far from an idyllic artist's journey. In fact, it was filled with struggle, from intense bouts of mental illness to financial hardship. Nevertheless, his profound love for art carried him through these trials and allowed him to create works that we still marvel at today.

 

 

Brief Overview of Van Gogh's Life and His Influence on Art

Vincent was born in 1853 in a small town in the Netherlands. From an early age, he showed an affinity for art, but it wasn't until his late 20s that he fully dedicated himself to his craft. His artistic career was a whirlwind of innovation and transformation, lasting a mere decade but leaving an indelible mark on the world of art.

Van Gogh was instrumental in laying the groundwork for modern art. His unique style, characterized by bold colors and expressive brushstrokes, deviated from the polished aesthetics of his contemporaries. Instead, he sought to capture raw emotion, a revolutionary approach that would later inspire movements like Expressionism.

Acknowledgment of His Struggles with Mental Health

Van Gogh's artistic genius was, tragically, intertwined with his mental health struggles. Today, we can see his battle with these issues reflected in his artwork, from his somber Dutch landscapes to the vibrant and chaotic scenes of his later years in France.

He was never financially successful during his lifetime, and his mental health deteriorated as his career progressed, culminating in a series of episodes that led him to voluntarily admit himself into a psychiatric hospital. His life ended in tragedy in 1890 when he took his own life.

But Van Gogh's story isn't just about struggle and tragedy—it's about the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art. Over the course of this book, we'll journey through his life, tracing the path of his artistic evolution and exploring how he transformed personal adversity into stunning, timeless art. So, buckle up—it's going to be an illuminating ride!

Early Life (1853-1872)

Grab your time-traveling gear because we're heading back to 1853, to a small town called Groot-Zundert in the Netherlands. This is where our story begins, with the birth of Vincent Willem van Gogh.

Birth and Childhood in Groot-Zundert, Netherlands

Vincent was born on March 30, 1853, into a family that loved art and religion. He was the eldest son of Theodorus van Gogh, a Protestant minister, and Anna Cornelia Carbentus, an artist's daughter with a fondness for nature - talk about a power combo for nurturing an artistic genius!

Growing up in a quiet, rural town, young Vincent spent his days exploring the countryside, a natural playground that would shape his love for nature and its beauty. He also had a passion for drawing, something that was encouraged by his mother.

Influence of His Family, Particularly His Mother and Brother Theo

Speaking of his mother, Anna played a massive role in Van Gogh's artistic development. She was a keen amateur artist and taught Vincent to observe the world closely, skills that would later become critical in his work.

Then there was Theo, Vincent's younger brother, who would become one of the most important figures in his life. Theo was his confidant, biggest supporter, and at times, sole financial backer. The brothers maintained a close relationship, with their correspondence providing deep insights into Vincent's thoughts, struggles, and artistic journey.

His Early Interest in Art and Nature

Even as a child, Vincent had a deep affinity for art and nature. His sketches of the countryside, filled with the intricate details of plants and animals, showed an early knack for observation and an ability to capture the beauty around him.

But Vincent's early life wasn't all art and daisy chains. His father's religious occupation and the austere environment at home fostered in him a deep sense of compassion and sympathy for those less fortunate, themes that would frequently reappear in his later works.

Vincent's childhood, filled with nature, art, and a deep-rooted empathy for others, set the stage for his artistic development. However, the path to becoming one of the most influential painters of all time was far from straight. The twists and turns of that journey are what we'll explore next as we delve into his education and early jobs. Stay tuned!

Education and Early Jobs (1872-1878)

We're now moving into Vincent's teen years and early adulthood—a period filled with transition, travel, and the hunt for a fulfilling career. Spoiler alert: it wasn't as straightforward as you might think!

Apprenticeship at Goupil & Cie, an International Art Dealer

In 1869, at the age of 16, Vincent started working at Goupil & Cie, a prominent international art dealership in The Hague. This was thanks to his Uncle Cent (real name Vincent), who was a partner there. Working at Goupil wasn't just a job for Vincent—it was his first immersive exposure to the world of art, from prints to paintings, and everything in between.

Over the next few years, Vincent was transferred within the company, moving from The Hague to London and later Paris. This gave him the chance to witness the contemporary art scene across different cultures, providing valuable insights that would later shape his artistic vision.

His Journey to England and Role as a Teacher and a Preacher

Despite the steady job and exposure to art, Vincent was not satisfied with his career at Goupil & Cie. The commercial aspect of the art world didn't resonate with his spiritual and artistic inclinations. By 1876, he'd had enough, and he left the company.

Following his departure, Vincent moved to England, where he worked various jobs, including as a teacher in a small boarding school and as a preacher. Although his career seemed disjointed, these experiences deepened his empathy and understanding of the human condition, qualities that would later echo in his artwork.

Personal Feelings of Loneliness and Displacement During These Years

Life in England and later in Belgium was a challenging period for Vincent. He felt a profound sense of loneliness and displacement—emotions that were only magnified by his failed romantic relationships. His letters from this period reveal his yearning for companionship and his struggles to find his place in the world.

By 1878, Vincent had reached a crossroads. He was dealing with professional uncertainty, emotional turmoil, and a growing desire to express his inner world. It was during this time that he began to realize that his true calling might be something entirely different. This turning point led him back to his childhood love—art.

Hang in there because things are about to get even more interesting as we step into the period where Vincent van Gogh, the artist we all know, starts to take shape. The artistic awakening awaits!

Artistic Awakening (1878-1882)

Let's fast forward to 1878. By this time, Vincent had decided to step away from his career as a preacher and embraced his true passion: art. This period, often referred to as his "artistic awakening," was a transformative time for our soon-to-be master artist.

Turn Towards Art after Leaving the Church

After leaving his position as a lay preacher in Belgium, Vincent started studying art more seriously. He enrolled in an art school in Brussels, driven by a new-found dedication to become an artist. This shift marked a significant milestone in his life—it was no longer about art as a hobby; it was now about art as a life choice.

Initial Influences and Artistic Style

Vincent's early works were heavily influenced by the somber tones of Dutch masters and the scenes of peasant life popularized by the Barbizon school. His palette during this period was dominated by earthy tones, showcasing life in its raw, unfiltered form.

One of the notable works from this period is "The Potato Eaters" (1885). The painting, with its dark tones and rough figures, may not have the vibrancy we associate with Van Gogh, but it reveals his compassion for the working class—a testament to his deep empathy and ability to evoke emotion through his art.

Time in Brussels Studying at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts

In 1880, Van Gogh decided to refine his skills by studying at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels. Although his time at the academy was brief, it gave him the opportunity to study the human figure, anatomy, and perspective—skills that would prove crucial in his later works.

Despite his formal training, Vincent was more inspired by the world around him than the traditional academic teachings. His studies did, however, fuel his desire to communicate his emotions through his art.

By 1882, Van Gogh had a solid foundation in art and a distinct, if still developing, style. However, he had not yet found the bold colors and dramatic brush strokes that would come to define his signature style. That transformation was yet to come and was triggered by his next big move—to Paris, the art capital of the world. As we journey into the next phase of his life, we'll watch as Vincent's art truly begins to bloom!

The Dutch Period (1882-1886)

Buckle up! We're entering a critical phase in Vincent's artistic journey - the Dutch period. This era is marked by his deep exploration of genre subjects, continued financial struggles, and an evolution of his painting style.

Details of Van Gogh's Life in the Netherlands, Particularly The Hague

In the early 1880s, Van Gogh was living in the Netherlands, spending a significant amount of time in The Hague. Despite his financial hardships, he managed to hire models from working-class backgrounds for his paintings, including his infamous lover, Sien Hoornik.

This period was also characterized by a close mentorship with Anton Mauve, a cousin by marriage, who introduced Vincent to oil paint and watercolors, setting the stage for his later works.

Exploration of Genre Subjects and Still Life

During his Dutch period, Vincent was deeply drawn to painting everyday people in their natural environments. He found beauty in the mundane – farmers working in the field, weavers, and fisherman. He also started experimenting with still life, a theme that would become a significant part of his artistic repertoire. His works from this period are known for their dark, earthy palette and somber tone.

Struggles with Poverty and Health Issues

While Vincent was evolving artistically, he continued to struggle financially. Relying heavily on his brother Theo's financial support, Vincent lived in near poverty. His health also began to deteriorate due to poor nutrition and continuous self-neglect.

Despite these difficulties, Vincent's commitment to his craft never wavered. He persevered, honing his skills and deepening his artistic understanding.

By 1886, Vincent was ready for a change, one that would drastically transform not only his personal life but his artistic style as well. The next stop? The dazzling city of Paris, where he would be introduced to a whole new world of color and light! So hold on tight; this ride is about to get a lot more colorful!

The Paris Period (1886-1888)

Welcome to the City of Lights! In 1886, Vincent packed up his life in the Netherlands and moved to Paris to live with his brother, Theo. This period was filled with new influences, experiments with color, and the birth of Van Gogh's iconic style.

Arrival in Paris and Exposure to New Artistic Movements

Imagine moving from a world of dark, somber tones to one bursting with vibrant colors and innovative styles. That's precisely what happened to Vincent when he arrived in Paris. Here, he was exposed to a variety of avant-garde movements, including Impressionism and Pointillism, which greatly influenced his own work.

Influences and Changes in Artistic Style

Paris was a whirlwind of new experiences for Vincent. He met and learned from a number of contemporary artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec, Pissarro, and Gauguin. Their bold use of color and light sparked a transformation in Vincent's own style.

He began experimenting with brighter, more vibrant colors, moved away from traditional dark palettes, and started using distinctive brush strokes. His subjects expanded to include cityscapes, self-portraits, and still lifes, notably his famed 'Sunflowers' series.

The Role of His Brother, Theo

Theo's role during this period cannot be overstated. Beyond providing financial support, he introduced Vincent to many artists and art dealers in Paris, thereby immersing him in the contemporary art scene. They lived together in Montmartre, the heart of Paris's artistic community, which provided daily inspiration and stimulation for Vincent.

However, despite all these exciting changes, Paris life took a toll on Vincent's health. He was drinking excessively and living a chaotic lifestyle, which eventually led him to seek solitude in the South of France.

As we prepare to say "Au Revoir" to Paris, we see a transformed Vincent—a man teetering on the edge of his most prolific period of artistic creation. We're now heading into the sunshine of Provence, a place that will forever be associated with Vincent van Gogh's most iconic works. It's about to get even more exciting!

The Arles Period (1888-1889)

We're leaving the hustle and bustle of Paris behind and heading to the tranquility of Arles, a small town in Provence. This sun-drenched corner of the South of France would play host to one of the most productive and tumultuous periods of Vincent's life.

Move to Arles and Motivation for the Shift

In 1888, seeking solace and inspired by the luminous light of the South, Vincent moved to Arles. He hoped that the tranquil rural life and the vibrant Provencal colors would provide him the peace he needed to focus on his art. And boy, did it deliver!

Prolific Output and Evolution of Style

The Arles period was marked by Vincent's exceptional productivity. He produced more than 200 paintings during this time, including some of his most famous works like 'The Night Café,' 'The Yellow House,' and 'Starry Night Over the Rhone.' His style matured, becoming more confident and defined. His brushwork became more dynamic and his use of color more daring and expressive.

The unique light and the intense colors of Provence inspired Vincent to take his palette to new heights. He created a series of paintings featuring blossoming fruit trees, sun-drenched wheat fields, and vibrant sunflowers that showcased his love for nature and his increasingly abstract style.

The Yellow House and His Dream of an Artists' Collective

While in Arles, Vincent rented a small house, famously known as "The Yellow House," with a dream of establishing a utopian art colony where like-minded artists could live and work together. His friend, Paul Gauguin, joined him in this venture for a short time, but this arrangement quickly dissolved due to their contrasting personalities and creative differences.

Unfortunately, the Arles period was also marked by Vincent's declining mental health. The end of his friendship with Gauguin triggered a severe mental breakdown, culminating in the infamous ear-cutting incident.

Despite the turmoil, the Arles period stands out as a time of intense creativity and artistic evolution for Vincent. His experiences here set the stage for his final period in Saint-Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise, where he produced some of his most admired work. So, let's continue on this journey, tracing the final steps of Vincent's remarkable life.

The Saint-Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise Period (1889-1890)

As we step into the final chapter of Vincent's life, we find him grappling with his mental health while continuing to create breathtaking masterpieces. This period, split between Saint-Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise, showcases an artist at the peak of his creative power, facing his inner demons head-on.

Self-admission to the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Asylum in Saint-Rémy

After the incident with Gauguin and his subsequent mental breakdown in Arles, Vincent voluntarily admitted himself to the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy in 1889. He hoped that the asylum's peaceful surroundings would provide both the tranquility he needed for his art and the care required for his mental health.

Prolific Output Despite Struggles with Mental Health

While in the asylum, Vincent had bouts of severe mental illness, alternating with periods of intense creativity. He painted over 150 canvases during this year, often working on multiple pieces at a time. His subjects varied from the hospital and its garden to copies of works by artists he admired, and of course, his renowned 'Starry Night.'

His paintings from this period are characterized by a certain emotional intensity, perhaps reflecting his mental state. His brushwork became more dramatic and his use of color more symbolic.

Move to Auvers-sur-Oise and the Final Months of His Life

In May 1890, Vincent moved to the quiet town of Auvers-sur-Oise, under the care of Dr. Paul Gachet, an amateur artist and a physician known for treating artists. His health initially seemed to improve, and he was incredibly productive, painting landscapes, portraits, and the town's rustic scenes.

Unfortunately, Vincent's mental health deteriorated rapidly, and he tragically took his own life on July 29, 1890. His final words to Theo, his lifelong supporter, were "The sadness will last forever."

Despite his tragic end, Vincent's legacy as an artist is immeasurable. His life was a testament to the power of creativity in the face of adversity. His vibrant use of color, expressive brushwork, and ability to convey raw emotion continue to captivate audiences, making him one of the most influential figures in Western art.

As we close this chapter, remember that Vincent's story is not just about his art, but also about his courage, his relentless pursuit of his passion, and his incredible ability to find beauty in the world despite his personal struggles. Vincent van Gogh was not just an artist; he was a fighter, a visionary, and above all, a remarkable human being.

 

 

Legacy and Influence

Our journey through Vincent's life might have reached its end, but his story is far from over. In this final chapter, we'll delve into the impact of his work and his enduring legacy, which continues to resonate in the art world and beyond.

Posthumous Recognition and Fame

During his lifetime, Vincent sold only one painting and was virtually unknown as an artist. However, in the years following his death, his work began to receive the recognition it deserved. His posthumous fame was initially sparked by his sister-in-law Johanna van Gogh-Bonger, who worked tirelessly to promote his artwork.

Over time, Vincent's work gained international acclaim. Today, he is considered one of the most important figures in Western art history. His paintings hang in major museums worldwide and have broken records at auctions, with some selling for over $100 million.

Influence on Art and the Emergence of Expressionism

Vincent's innovative use of color, bold brushwork, and ability to convey deep emotion through his paintings greatly influenced the development of Expressionism in the early 20th century. Artists like Edvard Munch and Egon Schiele drew inspiration from Vincent's work, incorporating his raw emotional style into their own.

Even today, Vincent's influence can be seen in various art forms, including painting, music, cinema, and literature. His life and work continue to inspire artists, pushing them to explore their creativity and express their emotions freely.

Vincent's Impact on Pop Culture

Van Gogh has transcended the world of art to become a pop culture icon. His life and paintings have been the subject of numerous films, books, and songs. From the song "Vincent (Starry Starry Night)" by Don McLean to the animated film "Loving Vincent"—the first of its kind to be painted entirely by hand—Vincent's story continues to fascinate and inspire.

Vincent once said, "I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people." Through his paintings, he showed us the beauty he saw in the world, despite his personal struggles. His legacy reminds us to seek beauty in our surroundings, express our emotions unabashedly, and above all, to cherish our ability to create.

And that's a wrap on our journey through the remarkable life and legacy of Vincent van Gogh! Remember, this is just a snapshot of his story. There's so much more to discover, so keep exploring, keep learning, and keep creating. After all, in the words of Vincent himself, "Great things are done by a series of small things brought together."

Interesting Facts and Anecdotes about Van Gogh

As we wrap up our deep dive into the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, let's end on a fun note with some intriguing facts and anecdotes about this legendary artist. From the inspiration behind his most famous works to his little-known hobbies, there's so much more to discover about Vincent!

Was Van Gogh a Redhead?

Vincent van Gogh, the iconic post-Impressionist painter, is widely recognized for his vivid and emotive works, but one aspect of his persona that often piques curiosity is his hair color. Was Van Gogh a redhead? This question has intrigued art enthusiasts and historians alike. The answer lies in the numerous self-portraits he painted throughout his career, where he consistently depicted himself with red hair. These paintings are a testament to Van Gogh's unique physical appearance, showcasing his striking red locks which complemented his deeply expressive and often tumultuous artistry. His use of fiery reds and oranges to portray his hair in these works not only confirms his ginger identity but also adds a layer of personal signature to his art. Van Gogh's red hair became synonymous with his passionate and intense nature, both in his life and in his artistic expression. This distinctive trait has contributed to the enduring fascination with his life story and works, making "Was Van Gogh a redhead?" a question that connects art lovers to the personal aspects of this legendary artist.

Delving deeper into the question, "Was Van Gogh a redhead?" we find that it extends beyond mere curiosity about his physical appearance. It opens a window into understanding the man behind the masterpieces, his self-perception, and how he chose to present himself to the world. Van Gogh’s self-portraits with red hair are more than just depictions of his external features; they are profound insights into his identity and emotional state. These paintings, characterized by bold brushstrokes and vibrant hues, reflect a man who was deeply introspective and unafraid to explore and express his complex emotions through his art. Van Gogh's red hair, as seen in these self-portraits, becomes a symbol of his fiery spirit and relentless pursuit of artistic truth. This aspect of his identity has intrigued art historians and enthusiasts, prompting a deeper exploration into his life and works. The fascination with whether Van Gogh was a redhead goes beyond superficial appearance; it's an exploration into the heart of one of the most influential figures in the history of Western art. It's a question that continues to captivate and engage audiences, adding an intriguing layer to the legacy of Vincent van Gogh and his extraordinary contribution to the world of art.

The "Sunflowers" Series

Ever wonder why Vincent was so captivated by sunflowers? Well, he once said that the sunflower is his! He felt a deep connection to these vibrant blooms and painted them in all stages of life, from full bloom to withering. He even used sunflowers to decorate his room when Paul Gauguin came to stay with him in Arles, hoping to impress his friend.

Vincent's Love for Books

Vincent was an avid reader and had a vast collection of books. He was particularly fond of English literature and often found inspiration for his work in his favorite novels. You could say that his passion for books was just as profound as his love for painting!

His Artistic Output

It's hard to believe, but most of Vincent's iconic works were produced in the last two years of his life, during his time in Arles, Saint-Rémy, and Auvers-sur-Oise. Despite his struggles with mental health, he was incredibly productive during this period, creating over 2,100 artworks, including around 860 oil paintings and more than 1,300 watercolors, drawings, and sketches.

The One Painting Vincent Sold

During his lifetime, Vincent only sold one painting, 'The Red Vineyard,' which was purchased by the Belgian artist Anna Boch. Despite the lack of financial success, Vincent never gave up his passion and continued to paint throughout his life. Now, his works are among the most expensive ever sold at auction.

The Mystery of His Ear

The infamous story of Vincent cutting off his own ear has been shrouded in mystery for years. Some accounts say he severed his entire ear, while others suggest it was just a part. What we know for sure is that he wrapped it in paper and gave it to a woman at a local brothel. Talk about a dramatic turn of events!

His Letters to Theo

Vincent and his brother Theo shared a close bond, and their correspondence offers deep insights into Vincent's thoughts and emotions. He wrote over 800 letters in his lifetime, with around 650 of them addressed to Theo. These letters serve as a unique window into his life, revealing his artistic ideas, inspirations, and struggles.

Even in these lesser-known aspects of his life, Vincent van Gogh remains an enigmatic figure. His passion for art, relentless dedication, and capacity to find beauty in the ordinary continue to captivate us. He may have left us over a century ago, but his spirit, encapsulated in his vibrant works and poignant letters, continues to live on, inspiring generations to come. Here's to Vincent—an artist, a dreamer, and a truly extraordinary individual.

 

Summary

Vincent van Gogh is a name that resonates beyond the world of art, symbolizing passion, dedication, and the intense beauty of the ordinary. His life story, woven with the threads of artistic genius, personal struggles, and a ceaseless pursuit of his passion, is as captivating as the vibrant hues of his masterpieces. Journey with us through his humble beginnings in the Netherlands to his transformative years in Paris and Arles, and finally to the tragically poignant end of his life. Immerse yourself in Van Gogh's world, where each stroke of his brush tells a tale of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering love for life.