Van Gogh And Paul Mezanne Research Paper

Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Cezanne are just few of the many artists which belonged to the post impressionism movement. This movement I significant to the art history as it rebelled against the traditions of the Impressionist style and took a new and improved approach. I have chosen to focus on this movement as I think it has a big impact on art history and the movement is home to some amazing artists and outstanding art work. My main focuses in this essay is some background on the movement and some if its influences and importance. As well as famous works from various artists and a look into how it was produced etc. Finally, I will go on to talk about two artists who played major roles in this movement where I will discuss their personal life

In particular Vincent van Gogh had incredible pieces of work. In particular, “A pair of shoes” (figure 1). This oil on canvas was painted in the year 1886 and there are many theories of why it was painted. Some people say these boots were a sign of Van Gogh’s struggle through life as the painting gives of a depressing atmosphere through the dark colours. Others say these shows were bought to be worn down to then become messy and in some state. (Van Gogh Net 2009). I personally believe that these shoes symbolise Van Gogh’s tough life and his struggles through it. Another famous painting is from Paul Gauguin. “Tahitian Women on the beach” (figure 2) this painting was painted the year 1891 and is oil on canvas it shows two women sat on a beach. This painting gives off a relaxing atmosphere as it is painted with warm colours. This painting reminds me of a holiday setting and it makes me

All though Van Gogh’s work did not become well-known or recognised till after his death, his work is now celebrated and loved years on. Van Gogh had issues from a young age as he had an upsetting upbringing as he was always reminded of the stillborn baby that passed away a year before he was born who had the same name as he did. This saddened Van Gogh. (The Biography 2015). These issues spread into his adult years where depression and psychotic phases began to arouse. During these phases Van Gogh stared to excessively drink alcohol and minimise his food intake. The unusual behaviour didn’t end there. When angry Van Gogh insanely cut off piece of his ear with a razor (Wikipedia 2017). This clearly shows that Van Gogh suffered horribly from poor mental health. This lead to Van Gogh spending time in a mental asylum where he painted one of his most famous paintings “starry night” (figure 3). (Ted ED 2015). This painting was produced in the June of 1889 during his time in the asylum. The painting is noticeable for its outstanding brushworks and dream like style. I find this painting interesting as I find the way in which he applied the paint thickly and the incredible movement in which the curves lead your eye through the work amazing. Painting skills and artistic talent was mainly self-taught as he would replicate different images from sketch books and teaching books from his time.