The Starry Night by van Gogh (1889) - perhaps his most famous work
Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890)
Sunflowers by van Gogh (1888)
March 30th 1853: Van Gogh born
On this day in 1853, the artist Vincent van Gogh was born in Zundert in the Netherlands. The young van Gogh had a keen interest in art, and continued to draw and paint into adulthood. As an adult van Gogh traveled extensively throughout Europe, exploring the different art scenes and becoming especially affected by the French Impressionists. Despite his talent and distinctive art style, van Gogh was unappreciated in his lifetime. The struggling artist also suffered from mental health issues, infamously cutting off his ear and eventually shooting himself aged just 37. In his tragically short life van Gogh left an impressive selection of work, with over 2,000 pieces of art attributed to him. When he died, van Gogh was a little known name; today he is a household name, due to the rediscovery of his art and praise for its unique style, bold colours, and emotionality.Happy 161st birthday Vincent van Gogh