❈ Vincent Van Gogh ~ Post-Impressionist

Born: March 30, 1853 - Died: July 27, 1890

Born in the Netherlands, Vincent Van Gogh's brief, turbulent, and tragic life is thought to epitomize the mad genius legend. He came from a long line of family members associated with the art world, including his brother Theo, an art dealer, who had a tremendous influence on Vincent's later career as an artist.

His earlier work consisted of more darker, traditional colors of his Dutch homeland. In 1885, while in Paris, he discovered impressionist art and he began to incorporate more vibrant hues.

These later portraits and landscapes, utilizing bright colors and heavy brushstrokes, were finally beginning to receive critical acclaim. This only served to depress him further. In July 1890, he set out with his easel and painting materials into the fields where he took out a revolver and shot himself in the chest. He was 37.