Vincent van Gogh was a Dutch post-impressionist painter, widely considered to be one of the most influential figures in the history of Western art. Born in 1853 in the Netherlands, Van Gogh tried various careers before turning to art at the age of 27. He began creating his distinctive and highly recognizable style, which emphasized bright, bold colors and thick, expressive brushstrokes. Despite his undeniable talent, Van Gogh struggled with mental illness throughout his life, and his emotional and mental instability led him to famously cut off his own ear in 1888. He spent time in psychiatric institutions, but continued to create art throughout his struggles. Despite his difficulties, Van Gogh produced some of his most iconic works during this time, including “Starry Night” and “Sunflowers.” Van Gogh’s life was cut tragically short when he died by suicide at the age of 37, but his work has continued to inspire and influence artists and art lovers around the world. Today, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest painters of all time.
