Realistic: Van Gogh's Starry Night Thesis

Although in general he would discuss his work in detail, Van Gogh only mentions this painting twice, in letters 595 and 607.

Van Gogh's "Starry Night" cannot be discussed outside of its artistic context. Thus, it is important to note here that Vincent Van Gogh was one of the most famous Post-Impressionist painters of the nineteenth century. Post Impressionism is much more difficult to define than Impressionism. Although there is great diversity among Impressionist painters as well, one can safely argue that their shared interest in the transitory effects of light binds their work together whereas in the case of Post-Impressionists, their personal styles differ greatly. Van Gogh paints the night sky from a hilltop overlooking a quiet town with a church and cottages. The most dramatic theme is the swirling stars, which dominate the scene, along with a towering group of Cypress trees. It is probably significant that the Cypress is the traditional tree of graveyards, as they are a symbol for eternity. Although no longer fervently religious as in his earlier years, this painting seems to suggest that God and nature and everlasting and infinite whereas the universe of man exists merely as a shadow, or a frail reflection of the divine.From the point-of-view of the composition, "Starry Night," with its swirling colors and lines incorporates not only the color and light that is common to Post-Impressionist painters, but also the forms and feelings which defined Van Gogh's personal style as the waves and swirls are applied so thickly that they create the impression of shadows. This technique consisting of heavy brushstrokes and vivid colors depicts a chaotic night sky which is in opposition with the peaceful and serene village which lies below. This dichotomy supported by curving lines creates the sensations of depth in the painting, and also allows a myriad of interpretations which is also representative for the historical and artistic context of the painting when artists -- painters and writers alike -- were constantly looking….....