About This Edition
My previous knowledge of Van Gogh's life didn't really include anything that wasn't shown in Vincent and the Doctor. Nor am I much a fan of biographies because most of the time I just learn about what a rotter someone was and then I can't really enjoy whatever it was I liked in the first place. But Tash was looking at biographies and the name jumped out at me, and why not?
Poor guy.I can't help but feel for someone who had to fight so hard to eke out a life. It was reassuring to know that he did have a strong opinion of the value of his work. Even if neither he nor his brother made anything, it's nice knowing that his sister-in-law persisted after their deaths, and that she and her son got to see him recognized.
One thing I uite enjoyed about this biography was that they had the opportunity to explain what Van Gogh's goals were. Not because I think intention necessarily has anything to do with the work produced, but because of the way his goals and techniques changed.
And maybe it's wrong, but I like knowing that the shouty man in the goofy fur hat may not have had much else in his life, but he did have his paintings and he knew when they were good. It's worthless to speculate what he might have achieved had he not been devastated by physical and mental ill health, except to remind me of the importance of art to make things better, and also, the importance of universal health care. And dental care. Poor guy lost most of his teeth well before he died.
Library copy.
again barrington's writing style is very simple, likeable and informative. van gogh is an artist that didn't interest me much, before reading this book.
Calling this book a biography is debatable given that there is a personified wind that speaks to Van Gogh throughout the story, but it is a lyrically written, elegantly illustrated introduction to the troubled but brilliant artist.
Mark Rylance and Julius D'Silva read from a new edition of Van Gogh's prodigious correspondence.This selection illustrates the artist's contradictions and complexities: his self-doubt and his passionate ambition; his close bond with his brother Theo; and his sometimes troubled relationships with other family members and fellow artists. What emerges above all is his overriding passion for his art.Abridged by Doreen Estall.Broadcast on:BBC Radio 4, 9:45am Monday 28th December 2009Part of the BBC Christmas 2009 season.
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