History
Vincent van Gogh: The Starry Night Painter
Explore the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, the iconic Dutch painter whose emotional art and tragic life have made him a world-renowned figure.
What is it?
Vincent Willem van Gogh (1853-1890) was a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who is one of the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art. In just over a decade, he created about 2,100 artworks, including around 860 oil paintings, most of which date from the last two years of his life. His work includes landscapes, still lifes, portraits, and self-portraits characterized by bold colors and dramatic, expressive brushwork that contributed to the foundations of modern art. Despite his immense talent, he sold only one painting during his lifetime and was largely unrecognized.
Why is it trending?
Van Gogh's popularity has soared posthumously, with his work selling for record-breaking sums at auctions. His compelling and tragic life story—marked by poverty and mental illness, including the infamous incident where he cut off part of his ear—has mythologized him as the quintessential "tortured artist". This narrative, combined with the raw emotion and vibrant beauty of his paintings like "The Starry Night" and "Sunflowers," continues to captivate global audiences. Blockbuster touring exhibitions and his extensive published letters to his brother Theo provide deep insight into his mind, keeping his story and art perpetually relevant.
How does it affect people?
Van Gogh's work has had a profound influence on the development of modern art, inspiring movements like Expressionism and Fauvism. His art and life story resonate with people on a personal level, symbolizing resilience, passion, and the struggle for recognition. His candid documentation of his mental health struggles in his letters has also opened up conversations about creativity and mental illness, offering a legacy of representation for those with similar battles. Today, his art is ubiquitous on merchandise and in popular culture, making him one of the most recognized and beloved artists in the world.