Vincent Van Gogh – A New Way of Seeing

A brilliantly insightful documentary, Vincent Van Gogh – A New Way of Seeing, provides a deeper understanding of Vincent Van Gogh, and the experiences throughout his life that contributed to his success. The viewer is taken on a journey of discovery, from his earlier occupation as an evangelist, through to his development into becoming an artist. 

A narration of Van Gogh’s letters, addressed to his younger brother Theo, feature heavily in the film. The brothers were very close, consequently writing frequently to one another whilst they lived apart. After his brother’s death, Theo worked hard to promote Van Gogh’s works and publish his letters, reiterating that “art is long, and life is short”.

This detail instantly creates a sense of intimacy and empathy between the audience and Van Gogh. The artist’s influences, ideas and doubts are brought to light in these letters, providing a fascinating window for the audience to understand what moved and inspired him. Theo’s great-grandson Vincent Willem Van Gogh also provides an interview, offering his own personal observation of his family history, and acknowledging that his relative’s art went unappreciated during his lifetime. 

The film presents the perspectives of a number of researchers and curators at the Van Gogh Museum, which opened in Amsterdam in 1973. Some current artists, such as Lachlan Goudie, express admiration for Van Gogh, drawing upon his own artistic influences in their works and confirming the shared view of the importance of light in compositions.

An artistic audience will be able to relate to Goudie and Van Gogh’s expressive love for capturing their observations with paint, perhaps even understanding the energy and euphoria that is experienced through creating in this medium. Many struggling artists will find solace in learning that Van Gogh initially lacked the confidence and talent to succeed, however, the documentary shows that both dedication and extensive practice were met with success, and his art flourished.

Emily D’Silva

Vincent Van Gogh – A New Way of Seeing is released nationwide on 14^th April 2015.

 

Watch the trailer for Vincent Van Gogh – A New Way of Seeing here: