What Was Van Gogh Inspired by in Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

Vincent van Gogh, the renowned Dutch painter, spent two years in Paris from 1886 to 1888. During this period, he was heavily influenced by the art scene in the city, which played a significant role in shaping his style and artistic vision. In this article, we will explore what inspired Van Gogh during his time in Paris.

The Impressionist Movement

One of the major influences on Van Gogh during his time in Paris was the Impressionist movement. This movement was characterized by its use of light and color to capture the fleeting moments of everyday life. The Impressionists were known for their loose brushwork and emphasis on capturing the atmosphere of a scene rather than its details.

Van Gogh was drawn to this style and began experimenting with it in his own work. His paintings from this period, such as “Starry Night Over the Rhone,” demonstrate his use of bright colors and bold brushstrokes to capture the essence of a scene.

Japanese Art

Another significant influence on Van Gogh during his time in Paris was Japanese art. Japanese prints were becoming increasingly popular in Europe at the time due to their unique style and subject matter. Van Gogh was particularly drawn to their use of bold lines and flat areas of color.

He began collecting Japanese prints and studying their techniques, incorporating them into his own work. This influence can be seen in paintings such as “The Courtesan” and “La Mousmé,” which feature flattened forms and strong outlines.

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum, with its vast collection of art from around the world, had a profound impact on Van Gogh during his stay in Paris. He spent countless hours studying the works of famous artists such as Rembrandt, Delacroix, and Millet.

Van Gogh was particularly drawn to the works of Jean-François Millet, whose paintings depicted rural life and the hardships faced by peasants. He was inspired by Millet’s use of light and shadow to create a sense of drama and emotion in his paintings.

The City Itself

Finally, the city of Paris itself was a major source of inspiration for Van Gogh. He was fascinated by its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, and diverse population. He often painted scenes from everyday life in the city, such as cafes, parks, and street vendors.

Van Gogh’s paintings from this period capture the energy and excitement of Paris. His use of bold colors and dynamic compositions reflect the vibrancy of the city and its people.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vincent van Gogh was inspired by a variety of factors during his time in Paris. The Impressionist movement, Japanese art, the Louvre Museum, and the city itself all played a significant role in shaping his style and artistic vision.

Van Gogh’s paintings from this period demonstrate his experimentation with different styles and techniques. His use of bold colors, loose brushstrokes, and flattened forms would go on to influence generations of artists after him.

Overall, Van Gogh’s time in Paris was a pivotal moment in his career as an artist. It allowed him to explore new ideas and techniques that would shape his work for years to come.