how did Vincent Van Gogh produce so much artwork?

 

Vincent Van Gogh took up painting in 1881, after a period of illness. He drew as a child but worked as an art dealer and missionary before rediscovering art about ten years before his death. In that decade, Van Gogh worked obsessively. He created 2,100 artworks, including over 35 self-portraits. He had no need to work for money, as his brother, Theo, supported him financially. This allowed Van Gogh to have more time to experiment with unique brushwork and color palettes. Though, even considering his lack of a job, the painter's speed and productivity were more than impressive. 

So, how did Vincent Van Gogh create so much artwork?

It is important to note that, throughout his life, Van Gogh, struggled immensely with his mental health. He went in and out of periods of solitude and his intense dedication to his art undoubtedly contributed to his poor mental and physical health. 

He also spent most of his money on paint supplies, instead of food. This was a on top of being exposed to toxins from said supplies.

Van Gogh woke up at 7 AM. He would then paint from that time until 6 PM. He fit in quick bites of food as he worked. In a letter to his brother, he claimed to "'...have no thought of fatigue...'" After the sun went down, he would go to his local cafe and spend time with other artists.

He went to bed early but, if inspiration struck during the night, he would get up and begin painting again.

On average, Van Gogh created a new piece of art every 36 hours. He would paint on the back of other paintings. a method that led to the discovery of a self-portrait hidden behind another Van Gogh work in 2022. 

In the last two years of his life, Van Gogh painted even more than usual. In 1888, he created 14 paintings of orchards within a month. In his final year of life, he painted 150 canvases. These canvases depicted a variety of subjects, including his natural surroundings and interpretative copies of other artists' works. 

Vincent Van Gogh died by suicide in 1890 believing that he had not made an impact. However, with the devotion of his brother as well as his sister-in-law, Johanna, his works were protected and exhibited. By WWI, in the early 20th century, his work was both critically acclaimed and admired. 

What can we learn from Van Gogh's life?

Van Gogh had, without a doubt, mastered his craft. His art speaks for itself. However, one does wonder whether his obsessive working habits contributed to his final mental decline and death. His work was being recognized more and more often in his last few years. Would Vincent Van Gogh have lived to see his own success if he simply chose rest and sustenance over an extra hour or two painting? 

His dedication was admirable, but it had a cost, as everything does. Maybe the point of life isn't just to work in order to have success but also to rest so that you can see the fruits of your labor.