Y Huong Degrandi
Brushstrokes of the Mind: Exploring Van Gogh's Inner Demons through Art
Vincent Van Gogh, Self-Portrait with a Bandaged Ear, 1889, oil on canvas. 24 in x 19 in. This study offers an in-depth exploration of the intricate psychological state portrayed in Vincent van Gogh's renowned self-portrait with a bandaged ear, meticulously dissecting the internal and psychological turmoil that found poignant expression in his artistic oeuvre. Van Gogh (1853-1890) inhabited the 19th century, an era characterized by profound stigmatization of mental health issues, which worsened his feelings of alienation and misunderstanding. Through meticulous analysis, this paper illuminates his grappling with loneliness, melancholy, and the existential burden evident in his artistic output, particularly during the period between 1888 and 1889, when he resided in the mental hospital in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
Persistent doubts about his artistic prowess and the ongoing quest to reconcile his beliefs with religion likely worsened his psychological anguish, paradoxically fueling his creative brilliance. Despite bouts of hospitalization and periods of convalescence due to deteriorating mental health, his later works stood as a testament to unparalleled creativity and profound emotional depth.
Through self-portraits and other art pieces, Van Gogh provided audiences with a window into his evolving psyche, inviting them on a journey to unravel the complexities behind his artistic genius. These glimpses into his inner turmoil serve as a poignant reminder of the profound connection between mental anguish and artistic expression, shedding light on the enduring legacy of one of history's most enigmatic artists.
Van Gogh's self-portrait with a bandaged ear and many other art pieces later serve as a poignant symbol of his internal struggles and the profound connection between mental anguish and artistic expression. Through his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence amidst psychological turmoil, Van Gogh left behind a legacy that continues to captivate and inspire generations, reminding us of the enduring power of creativity in the face of adversity.
Vincent Van Gogh, Self-Portrait with a Bandaged Ear, 1889, oil on canvas. 24 in x 19 in. In this well-known self-portrait, Vincent van Gogh provides viewers with a glimpse into the challenges he faced, indicating his deteriorating mental and physical health. The artwork serves as a poignant portrayal of mental illness, reflecting the fervent yet fragile nature of the artist's life. Van Gogh's depiction of himself, notably with a bandaged ear, alludes to the aftermath of a tumultuous event—his self-inflicted injury following a heated altercation with fellow artist Paul Gauguin. The bandage serves as a symbolic representation of his inner turmoil and inability to regulate his emotions, culminating in self-harm.
Although Van Gogh portrays a serene facial expression, subtle details within the composition convey his profound distress. The inclusion of a fluffy hat and a green coat worn indoors suggests a yearning for warmth and security, indicative of his emotional instability. Additionally, the presence of an empty canvas hints at Van Gogh's existential uncertainty and perhaps his wavering confidence in his artistic endeavors. It is conceivable that the blank canvas signifies a desire for a fresh start or a contemplation of abandoning his artistic pursuits altogether.
Furthermore, the composition may also be interpreted as an attempt to obscure his true state from the scrutiny of medical professionals during his hospitalization. Van Gogh's deliberate portrayal of composure juxtaposed with subtle visual cues of distress underscores the complexity of his inner turmoil.
Vincent Van Gogh, The Bedroom, 1888, oil on canvas. 35 × 42 1/2 × 3 1/2 in. During his residency at the asylum suggested by his brother Theo, Vincent van Gogh produced a series of paintings inspired by his recollections of the Yellow House he once shared with his fellow artist and friend, Paul Gauguin. Among these paintings, three versions were created, two of which were completed in 1889 as gifts for his mother and sister, Willemien, while the initial rendition was painted in 1888 during the early stages of his asylum stay.
What renders this particular painting significant is arguably the perspective offered through the window—a view of a walled garden with a glimpse of the blue sky and radiant sunlight. This imagery symbolizes van Gogh’s longing for freedom, spiritual enlightenment, and liberation from his mental turmoil, serving as a beacon of hope and the prospect of a brighter future beyond his personal struggles.
Despite portraying scenes from distinct periods, both iterations of the painting sought to evoke feelings of tranquility and serenity, reflecting van Gogh's quest for inner peace amidst the turbulence of his existence. This sentiment is evident in his deliberate use of vibrant hues such as striking blues, radiant yellows, and deep reds, which are skillfully juxtaposed to evoke a sense of emotional intensity and depth, thus contributing to his distinctive artistic expression.
Vincent van Gogh's famous painting, The Starry Night, has sparked discussions among art historians and psychologists regarding his potential struggle with bipolar disorder. The presence of the cypress tree, often associated with death, suggests Van Gogh's contemplation of mortality during his depressive episodes, yet also hints at his hope for an afterlife. The swirling depiction of stars and wind reflects his ongoing journey of self-discovery amidst inner turmoil. His use of vibrant colors, which are known to express his mental state, such as blues conveying sorrow, and his portrayal of familial and religious themes in the darkened town, where even the starlight cannot penetrate, suggests a restless yet thoughtful state, possibly influenced by his upbringing and his father's profession as a pastor. This masterpiece offers a poignant glimpse into Van Gogh's inner world, revealing his emotional struggles and philosophical musings. Through intricate brushwork and symbolic elements, The Starry Night enchants viewers visually while also prompting reflection on the artist's psychological complexities, highlighting the intersection of mental health and artistic expression.
Vincent Van Gogh, Starry Night, 1889, oil on canvas. 29.01 in × 36.26 in. 
Vincent Van Gogh, Irises, 1889, oil on canvas. 2 ft 5 in x 3 ft 0 in. Vincent van Gogh's renowned work, Irises, crafted during his residency at the asylum, reveals a profound contrast between its serene appearance and the tumultuous emotional state of its creator. Amidst his profound desperation and isolation, Van Gogh found solace in the asylum's garden, where he found the subject for this iconic piece. While the painting exudes tranquility, a closer inspection unveils a deeper layer of unease and disquiet, reflective of the artist's inner turmoil. Departing from traditional still-life conventions, Van Gogh imbues the irises with a sense of movement, perhaps inviting viewers to trace their restless motion. Notably, the solitary white iris amidst the predominantly blue ones serves as a poignant self-portrait, symbolizing Van Gogh's profound sense of alienation and detachment from reality. Through Irises, Van Gogh masterfully captures the dichotomy between outward calmness and inner turmoil, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of human experience.
Vincent Van Gogh, The Wheatfield with Crows, 1890, oil on canvas. 19.8 in × 41 in. Wheatfield with Crows stands as one of Vincent van Gogh's most renowned works, purportedly his final creation preceding his tragic demise in the same year of its completion. Laden with symbolism, the painting portrays a foreboding sky, ambiguous crows whose flight direction remains uncertain, and a path leading into an ominous horizon, suggestive of impending mortality. Traditionally associated with death and despair, the presence of crows underscores van Gogh's profound sense of loneliness and desolation. Despite the superficial allure of its landscape, the painting's palette and composition evoke a profound sense of detachment and hopelessness, reflective of the artist's emotional turmoil in his final months. Through this masterpiece, Van Gogh offers a glimpse into his subjective reality, revealing his existential anguish and dissatisfaction with life, both personally and artistically. Wheatfield with Crows thus serves as a poignant testament to the artist's inner turmoil and his poignant interpretation of existence.
Y Huong Degrandi
(she/her)
Art History ‘24
Y Huong Degrandi obtained a degree in Art History and has always been fascinated by the world of art since childhood. Initially, she focused on drawing as her primary form of expression but later expanded her interests to studying the history, techniques, and contexts that have inspired artists throughout the centuries. This approach has led her to consider art as a mirror of the human soul, a means to reflect emotions, experiences, and inner visions. In addition to her degree in Art History, Huong has a background in Psychology, which she integrates into her artistic approach for a deeper understanding of human complexity through art.