Vincent Van Gogh is one of the most renowned artists of all time, but how much do we know about the man himself? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some lesser-known facts about Van Gogh’s life that shed light on his creative spirit and the challenges he faced.
1. Vincent Van Gogh Wasn’t Always an Artist
Although today Van Gogh is primarily remembered as a painter, he didn’t take up the brush until his late twenties. In fact, he only started painting in 1881, at the age of 28. Before that, he worked as an art dealer and a teacher, among other things.
2. Van Gogh Was a Prolific Writer
Alongside his paintings, Van Gogh produced a considerable amount of letters, mainly to his brother Theo. He wrote nearly 900 letters to Theo between 1872 and 1890, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into his artistic process and his personal life.
3. His Mental Health Struggles Are Well Documented
Van Gogh’s mental health struggles are well-known, and some of his most famous paintings were created during periods of intense emotional turmoil. In 1889, for example, he famously painted “The Starry Night” while staying in a psychiatric hospital in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France.
4. He Had a Fascination with Japanese Art
Van Gogh was a passionate collector of Japanese woodblock prints, and their influence can be seen in some of his work. For example, his famous painting “The Bedroom” is thought to have been inspired by a Japanese print he owned.
5. Van Gogh’s Death Was Tragic and Mysterious
Van Gogh’s death in 1890 at the age of 37 is still the subject of much speculation. He died from a gunshot wound, and while suicide is the most commonly accepted cause, some theories suggest he may have been accidentally shot by two boys or even murdered.
In conclusion, Vincent Van Gogh’s life was complex and fascinating, and these small bits of information only scratch the surface of his story. By exploring his lesser-known experiences and influences, we gain a deeper understanding of the man behind some of the world’s most beloved artworks.
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