Vincent Van Gogh
His work influenced art as we see it today. His output includes portraits, self portraits, landscapes, still lifes of trees, fields and flowers . . . yet all we seem to remember is his remarkable, misunderstood and tragic life.
We know much about Van Gogh's life and emotional struggles due to the extensive collection of letters that were written between Vincent and his brother, Theo. We have more than 640 letters exchanged between the two men during their adult lives. We have an additional 200 letters Vincent wrote to other friends as well. The letters were preserved by Theo's widow,Johanna Van Gogh-Bonger, who later said that she was reluctant to publish because she did not want the details of the artist's life to overshadow his work. |
To see a cinematic portrait of Van Gogh, click HERE.
You will also find an outstanding article charting the artistic genius's life on this link. The worksheet below accompanies the video.
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The Self Portraits
Undoubtedly, VanGogh's most famous painting is Starry Night. He is also well remembered for his depictions of sunflowers and irises. However, Van Gogh was a prolific portrait artist as well - often using himself as a model. CLICK HERE for a collection of Vincent Van Gogh's self portraits. Choose one you like, save it to your notes, and reflect upon this question:
What can you infer about Vincent from this portrait? What is he trying to convey as the sitter (subject)? What is he trying to convey as the artist? HOW does he do this? Be specific, use terminology!
The Letters
CLICK HERE to visit an extensive collection of VanGogh's letters. Explore and choose a quote that compliments the emotion conveyed in the self-portrait you chose. Make sure the quote clearly reveals a part of Vincent's personality/emotion/state of mind.
Using an app of your choice, superimpose the quote from Van Gogh's letter on the portrait you chose and upload it website below.
Using an app of your choice, superimpose the quote from Van Gogh's letter on the portrait you chose and upload it website below.
Additional Resources |
If you are interested in Van Gogh, you can learn more about his life through HIS OWN WORDS, by clicking here.
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If you are a STEM person, check out the video to the right. VanGogh's Starry Night and other pieces painted while in the throes of a psychotic episode, have stunned and helped scientists decipher one of the secrets of the universe!
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