Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Letters of Vincent

I'm reading "The Letters of Vincent Van Gogh", written to the painter's brother Theo which spanned his entire adult life. Generally considered to be a mad genius his personal letters reveal an empathetic, thoughtful and articulate man, who was gracious right up until his tragic suicide.

Vincent's early years spent serving the poor miners in the Borinage as an evangelist (this word has been corrupted by all contemporary 'non-believers and men-stealers talking in the name of religion' - Dylan.) describe a humble man who truly lived a life of christian charity. He gave his money and clothes to his poor neighbors and shared their life as an equal.

Living in continual poverty Vincent never wavered from his search for truth and beauty through his art. His letters express his dream to bring joy to common people with his work and will inspire any reader. A recommended read.

Vincent made his first sale with "The Red Vineyard" for 400 francs in the year of his death, 1890.

His "Portrait of Dr Gachet" recently sold for $139,000,000.

I've included a third painting by an unknown and possibly mad painter.



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