Van Gogh's Inner Struggle

Hundreds of handwritten letters reveal an artist's insightful thoughts. Explore the complex mind behind one of the most famous painters in history.

Struggling artist Vincent van Gogh shunned commercial success to follow his heart. Formerly a clerk at an art dealer's, he knew what kind of work would be embraced by the public. But he turned his back on the masses to produce honest creations at the cost of poverty, isolation, and agonizing adversity.

Faithfully pursuing what he called his "ruinous mistress," Van Gogh always resented his financial dependence on his brother, Theo. His insistence that significant hardship was key to summoning the creative muse would be his emotional legacy.

In Van Gogh's Inner Struggle, you'll discover a fascinating look into this painter's tortured soul and how his artistic approach was affected by his mental health. With nuanced analysis and the artist's own letters, Van Gogh expert Liesbeth Heenk, Ph.D., offers thoughtful insights to help you see the master's works in a new light.

If you like beautiful moving quotes, the stories behind the masterpieces, and the personal thoughts of a genius, then you'll love this intimate study.