Vincent van Gogh

Vincent van Gogh was born in Groot- Zundert, Holland.

As the son of a pastor, he was brought up in a very religious atmosphere.

He had an older brother who died at birth. This child was also named Vincent van Gogh.

. Vincent van Gogh was highly emotional and lacked self esteem. He had epilepsy and other mental and physical conditions.

Vincent van Gogh never married, though he had two very unsuccessful romances.

He worked as a book clerk, an art salesman and a preacher. As a preacher he was dismissed for being over zealous.

Van Gogh’s early work showed the traditional Dutch influences. The Dutch influence is evident in his early piece “The Potato Eaters.”

After moving to Antwerp, Van Gogh discovered the works of Rubens and began to purchase many Japanese prints.

In 1886, Van Gogh moved to Paris to join his brother Theo.

While in Paris he studied with Cormon, and eventually met Pissarro, Monet and Gauguin.

He began to lighten his palette and use the short strokes of the impressionists.

Van Gogh decided to move to an art school in Arles, his friend Gauguin moved there also.

. The results were disastrous. In a fit of rage van Gogh chased Gauguin around with a razor. Gaugiun tried to help his friend, but he was not successful.

After Van Gogh cut off part of his own ear, he was sent to an asylum in Saint- Remy.

While at Saint Remy van Gogh painted his most famous piece, “ The Starry Night.”

In May of 1890, Van Gogh seemed to be doing much better. Under the care of Dr. Gachet, Van Gogh moved to Auvers-sur-Oise.

Two months later, in a wheat field, Van Gogh shot himself “for the good of all.”

He died two days later at the age of 37.

Two months after Vincent van Gogh’s death, his brother Theo died. They are buried next to each other in Auvers, France.

In his short ten year career, van Gogh created over 900 paintings.

In his lifetime he sold only one painting.

He became famous only after his death.

Theo’s wife, Johanna, dedicated herself to collecting his works and letters and getting Vincent van Gogh the recognition that he deserved.