Self-portrait by Vincent Van Gogh

early life

march 30, 1853 zundert, netherlands

1853

As a child, Vincent was described as serious and thoughtful. After leaving school, Vincent worked for an art dealer in The Hague, and later, for an art dealer in London.

Portrait of Mother by Vincent Van Gogh

Childhood

Vincent's relationship with his parents was complex and at times strained. His father was a stern and religious man, while Vincent was more sensitive and artistic. Despite their differences, Vincent had a strong emotional bond with his mother, who shared his love of nature and art.

Portrait of Artist’s Mother 1888 Norton Simon Museum of Art, Pasadena, California
The Sower by Vincent Van Gogh

1879

At the age of 26, Vincent studied at the Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels, Belgium, for a few months before leaving and returning to his parents' home in the Netherlands. Vincent continued to study art on his own and began creating his own style of painting.

The Sower (after Millet) 1881 Kröller-Müller Museum, Otterlo, Netherlands