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Liesbeth Heenk

An excellent introduction to Van Gogh's fascinating Life and Work

Everyone is familiar with paintings such as "The Sunflowers” and “Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh. The intense vibrant colours and wavy brushworks will almost tell you immediately that the work is by the master. But what do you actually know about his life filled with hardships and sorrow?

This book is a smooth introduction to the life and work of Van Gogh, written by an expert who draws from the vast number of letters written by the artist himself to his brother Theo, family and friends, to illustrate how he bravely faced life, art and mental illness.

If you are an art lover and want to gain a greater appreciation for one of the most fascinating artists of all time, this book is recommended. By investing only one hour of your time you will gain a whole new perspective on Van Gogh's life and work.

A very accessible introduction to understanding the art of Vincent Van Gogh.

Amsterdam Publishers

Secrets of van Gogh

The 1-Hour Van Gogh Book: Complete Van Gogh Biography for Beginners

Fascinating look into the life of a tortured Genius

Using Van Gogh's letters as a primary source, the author discusses the artist's life, his approach to his work and his mental illness. The letters vividly show the artist's life was no bed of roses. Whereas Van Gogh perfectly knew what was sellable, he continued to produce what he considered as honest, 'truthful' art, regardless of current taste. He did not expect the art-buying public to understand the rough appearance of his work. Van Gogh acknowledged that being an artist simply involved struggle, but he believed that one would benefit from adversity, both personally and professionally. "No victory without a battle, no battle without suffering." 

In Van Gogh's case it seems to have been a never ending battle against poverty, isolation and adversity. Given his circumstances - being financially dependent upon his brother Theo, not selling any work, and getting minimal recognition - his achievements are utterly amazing. 

The series Secrets of Van Gogh:

#1 The 1-Hour Van Gogh Book - Complete Van Gogh Biography for Beginners

#2 Van Gogh's Inner Struggle - Life, Work and Mental Illness

#3 Van Gogh Today: Short Stories 

#4 Van Gogh in Love - a (not so!) romantic Van Gogh Biography

#5 Van Gogh and Money - The Myth of the Poor Artist

Denise Kahn

Van Gogh's Inner Struggle: Life, Work and Mental Illness

Secrets of van Gogh - The book series

Secrets of van Gogh - The book series

Secrets of van Gogh books in order

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