Vincent Van Gogh's Starry Night and the National Endowment for the Arts - Essay Example

The Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh is one of the most celebrated painters in the 18th century. He is considered as an Impressionist and most of his artworks are popular to art patrons which makes the artworks expensive. Van Gogh’s initial experience with art was not stimulating since his first few jobs were as a teacher, and later, a missionary. It was only in 1880 that he started his art when he went to Paris and encountered Impressionism and Neo-Impressionism. The bright colors were immediately integrated into his artworks that combined with his special art style.

This mix resulted to a successful signature style that he practiced on while staying at Arles, France.Van Gogh’s extensive artworks were no less than 2,000 pieces . He was prolific during the last ten years of his life where he produced 900 paintings and 1,100 drawings and sketches. He was known also as an eccentric person especially at that time he cut off his ear as a result of his struggle with Paul Gauguin that almost led to the latter’s death. Later, scientists unraveled the mental illness he suffered from that led to his suicide.

Van Gogh’s contribution to art is Expressionism which heavily influenced the German Impressionists. Much more, his influence stretched even up to the 20th century where contemporary artworks derive inspiration from his Impressionist style. Starry Night The background of the painting Starry Night is replete with emotional innuendos in the life of Van Gogh. First, this piece of work was done during Van Gogh’s stay in a mental asylum near Saint-Remy. He was severely depressed that he even attempted to kill his estranged friend Paul Gauguin with a razor.

However, Van Gogh’s transfer from one asylum to another did not end long, he committed suicide before he was 37. This circumstances are important in emphasizing the influence it may have on the artwork itself.The Starry Night portrays vivid colors of burning yellow rockets that seem to project Van Gogh’s repressed feelings. The planets that gyrate like cartwheels are spinning ideas and turbulent emotions that he could not control. Underlying that chaotic scene are the blue skies containing gold fireworks which seem to project of what’s left in Van Gogh’s sanity.

However, underneath, the earth is shaking which betrays his real emotions. Presently, the oil painting can be seen at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. It dates as far as 1889 and its measurement is 72 x 92 cm (29 x 36 1/4 in). Interestingly, even a song “Vincent” tried to express the struggles of the main character that resembles Van Gogh. The painting should be hung on a school, not in a museum. It must be seen by the young generations of today so they will appreciate the aesthetics.

It is a very good piece to contemplate on. Aside from this, a painting evokes different interpretations that young minds need. They need to be critical thinkers and not passive receivers of popular culture. Another important lesson that can be gained from this painting is developing one’s personal style that young people of today must recognize. Taxpayer’s money spent on supporting this artwork will be of value since the painting goes beyond aesthetics given its background. It represents the humanity and failings even of a great artist such as Van Gogh.

Moreover, it has lessons that the future generations can learn from. In this time of economic crisis, we may simply dismiss things that do not have use to be wasteful. However, art must not belong in that category. Paintings represent many aspects of culture and history that cannot be read from books. In short, supporting the artwork “Starry Night” gives many benefits to the community and must be preserved since its benefits outweigh its costs. WORKS CITED: Vincent Van Gogh: Biography.http://www.

vangoghgallery.com/misc/bio.html