Where Did Van Gogh Live in Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

Vincent van Gogh, one of the most celebrated painters of all time, is known for his vivid and dynamic paintings. His art has left an indelible mark on the world of art and continues to inspire generations.

Van Gogh is known for his time in Arles, but before that, he lived in Paris. But where exactly did he live in Paris?

The Arrival

Van Gogh arrived in Paris on March 20th, 1886. He was excited about the prospect of living in the artistic hub of Europe and was determined to make a name for himself among the great artists of his time.

The First Apartment

Van Gogh’s first apartment was at Rue Laval, which is now called Rue Victor-Massé. He lived there with his brother Theo for two years from 1886-1888. The apartment was small and modest but it had everything that they needed.

The Interior

The interior of the apartment was simple with whitewashed walls and wooden floors. The furniture was basic but functional, consisting mainly of a bed, a table, and a few chairs. Van Gogh decorated the walls with some of his own paintings as well as those by other artists.

The Neighbourhood

The neighbourhood where Van Gogh lived was vibrant and bustling with activity. It was close to many cafes, restaurants, and art galleries which provided him with inspiration for his work.

The Second Apartment

In 1888 Van Gogh moved to another apartment on Rue Lepic in Montmartre; this apartment had more space than the previous one on Rue Laval.

The interior of this apartment was also simple but more spacious than the previous one. The walls were covered with bright yellow paint which matched Van Gogh’s vibrant personality. The furniture was again basic, consisting of a bed, a table, and a few chairs.

Montmartre was known for its bohemian culture, and Van Gogh loved the artistic vibe of the neighbourhood. He spent much of his time exploring the area and finding inspiration for his work.

The Legacy

Van Gogh’s time in Paris was brief but crucial to his development as an artist. He discovered new techniques, experimented with different styles and found inspiration in the bustling city. Although he struggled to gain recognition during his lifetime, Van Gogh’s legacy lives on today through his stunning paintings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vincent van Gogh lived in two apartments during his time in Paris; Rue Laval and Rue Lepic. Both apartments were modest but provided him with everything that he needed to create some of his most famous works. The neighbourhoods where he lived were vibrant and full of life, providing him with endless inspiration for his art.