Self Portrait

Vincent Van Gogh had a very short, tragic life. Together with Paul Cezanne, Georges Seurat and Paul Gauguin, he is ranked as one of the founding fathers of modern art.

Born in Groot-Zundert, Holland. Son of a pastor. Brought up in a religious and cultured atmosphere and was himself extremely devout. Highly emotional and lacking in self-confidence. Worked a variety of jobs until 1880 when decided to become an artist (age 27). Determined to give happiness by creating beauty. THE EARLY YEARS

Began to study art in Belgium. Works this period are somber-toned, and sharply lit. Example: The Potato Eaters (1885)

1886 went to Paris to join brother Theo. Studied and met famous artists including Pissarro, Monet, and Gauguin. Began to lighten palette and painting with Impressionistic strokes. Time in Paris compromised his health.

Red Poppies

Went to Arles to regain health. Hoped his friends would join him and establish a school of art. Was joined by Gauguin – results were disasterous. In a fit of madness he went after Gauguin with a knife – Gauguin stopped him. Later that day Van Gogh cut off a part of his own ear lobe and offered it to a woman as a gift. At this time went between fits of madness and being okay.

Was a prolific painter during this time Vincents Bedroom in Arles

Sunflowers

Irises – St. Remy

With his grip on sanity slipping, he committed himself to an asylum in Saint- Remy for treatment. When he seemed better he was sent to Auvers-sur-Olse to be watched by Dr. Gachet. Portrait of Dr. Gachet

He viewed his life as horribly wasted, personally failed and impossible. On July 27, 1890 Van Gogh attempted suicide by shooting himself in the chest. He died two days later from the wound at the young age of 37. Self Portrait With Bandaged Ear and Pipe

During his short career he created approximately 900 paintings, but sold only one: The Red Vineyard for the equivalent of $80.

Was treated with a drug, Digitalis. This drug can cause one to see in yellow or see yellow spots. Drank Absinthe, toxic alcoholic drink. Contains Thujone, which in high doses can cause one to see objects in yellow. It was thought that Van Gogh may have had lead poisoning from his paints. This leads to lead poisoning/swelling of the retinas, and can cause one to see light in circles like halos around objects.

Starry Night

Starry Night Over the Rhone

He suffered from seizures that doctors believed was from epilepsy. Was possibly bipolar as evidenced by his extreme enthusiasm and dedication followed by exhaustion, depression and ultimately suicide. Often painted outdoors – some of the many symptoms he talks about may have been the result of sunstroke.