My Life in Colour

My life has been one of intense feeling — love, sorrow, faith, and a darkness I could never fully explain. I have painted with everything I have, and that is the truest thing I can say about myself. In barely ten years as a painter, I made over 2,100 works — around 860 in oil. Not because I was disciplined, but because I was desperate. The canvas was the only place I ever felt completely understood.

Self-portrait with a Grey Felt Hat painting by Vincent van Gogh

Self-portrait with a Grey Felt Hat | 1887

My Journey

1853

My Beginnings

I was born in the Netherlands to the son of a pastor, raised in a home full of faith and books. From the start, the world felt too large and too beautiful to simply pass through

1880

My Calling

After years of trying to serve others as an art dealer, a teacher, and a preacher, I understood at last: I was meant to paint. At 27 years old I picked up a pencil and I have not truly put it down since.

1886

Paris & The Light

I moved to Paris to live with my dear brother Theo. There I discovered the Impressionists — and I found something open in me. My palette, which had been dark and heavy, erupted into yellows, greens, and blues

1888

Arles & The Yellow House

I went south to Arles, France, chasing the sun. The light there was like nothing I had ever seen. I rented the Yellow House and attempted to start an artists' colony.

1889

My Troubles

I admitted myself to the asylum at Saint-Rémy. While I was here I painted over 100 works, including 'The Starry Night'. Which came to me at night through the iron bars of my window.

1890

Auvers

I have currently moved to Auvers-sur-Oise to be closer to Theo. I'm not entirely sure what the future holds