Van Gogh's Inner Struggle http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DS6OXIS/

1. Van Gogh's Inner Struggle
Life, Work and Mental Illness (Secrets
of Van Gogh)
Liesbeth Heenk (Author)

2. If you love Van Gogh you
will admire him even
more after reading Van
Gogh's Inner Struggle

3. Everyone is familiar with works such as The
Sunflowers and Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh.
The intense, vibrant colours and undulating
brushstrokes are instantly recognizable trademarks
of the artist. If you have visited an exhibition or done
a bit of reading, you may also be familiar with the
story of his life, which was filled with hardship and
sorrow, his love for Japan, and his shocking death.

4. Van Gogh’s Inner Struggle is part 2 of
the series Secrets of Van Gogh. Using
Van Gogh's own letters as a primary
source, the author discusses the artist's
life, his approach to his work and his
mental illness. The letters vividly show
his life was no bed of roses.

5. Whereas Van Gogh knew what was
sellable, he continued to produce what
he considered as honest, ‘truthful’ art,
regardless of current taste. He did not
expect the art-buying public to
understand the rough appearance of his
work. Van Gogh acknowledged that being
an artist involved struggle, but believed
one would benefit from adversity,
personally as well as professionally. “No
victory without a battle, no battle
without suffering.”

6. Being an artist involves sacrifices, but in Van Gogh’s
case it seems to have involved a never ending battle
against poverty, isolation and adversity. Given his
circumstances - being financially dependent upon his
brother, not selling, and getting minimal recognition
- his achievements are utterly amazing.

7. Being an artist involves sacrifices, but in Van Gogh’s
case it seems to have involved a never ending battle
against poverty, isolation and adversity. Given his
circumstances - being financially dependent upon his
brother, not selling, and getting minimal recognition
- his achievements are utterly amazing.