Vincent Van Gogh was a famous painter who was born in Zundert, Netherlands and died in Auvers-sur-Oise, near Paris, France. Some people (most) consider Van Gogh one of the greatest painters of the post-impressionist era. Alright, enough with the history. Van Gogh’s art became very popular after his death which is typical of most artists. I personally don’t share the same sentiments as millions of art loving people. In fact I don’t eve like Van Gogh’s paintings even though my wife has a few of his most famous paintings (reproductions) all over our home. Her favorite is The Starry Night and frankly it does look like something a child in elementary school would create. In fact, we also have a drawing done by our son when he was only 6 or 7 of The Starry Night hanging next to Van Gogh’s and sometimes I have to stop and pay close attention to figure out which is which. I already feel all the literal daggers being sent my way but if people were honest, which most are not, they would think as I do and proclaim the same thing, that Van Gogh like most of the old artists may have had some type of visual or mental disability.
Vincent Van Gogh’s Sunflower
Regardless of how I feel about Van Gogh and his paintings I do understand the mentality of the masses and the perceptive value these paintings posses. As a former art student and current photographer I understand the complexity of certain aspects of art and photos much more than just the superficial qualities and aesthetics. For instance, anytime I look at a photo or painting I have to tell myself the two are not the same which is opposite of what some people think today. Some believe that photography is art and is equivalent to a painting, I don’t. I think art is art and photographs are photographs and although they both contain or posses certain qualities they were created very differently. I don’t think I can ever change my mind regarding this topic but you know what they say about never say never!
In the next few weeks I will be attempting to create some of Van Gogh’s most famous pieces of art by photographing similar but not exact visuals of the painting. My first attempt is going to be a The Sunflower painting just because our local farm grows them and they are about to bloom pretty soon.
Please check my Instagram account for further news and when it’s ready.