Getting to Know Van Gogh with Will South

Vincent van Gogh
Dutch, 1853-1890
Flower Beds in Holland, c. 1883
Oil on canvas on wood
48.9 x 66 cm (19 ¼ x 26 in.)
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon,
1983.1.21

Dive into the world of Van Gogh and His Inspirations in this lecture series featuring CMA staff and guest experts. Van Gogh is a famous example of artistic genius. It is widely believed that his abilities in painting were beyond the abilities of the average person—that he was special, different, gifted, a genius. This talk examines the notion of genius and asks if there is not a more rational explanation for artistic achievement. CMA Chief Curator Will South looks at the many sources Van Gogh used to arrive at his unique and personal style, many of which are featured in the current exhibition. South provides an alternative to the idea of genius, an alternative that does not diminish Van Gogh but rather widens our appreciation of one of art history’s most enduring legends.