Houses And Figure (1890)
Created in 1890, Houses and Figure exemplifies Vincent van Gogh's mastery of color and form during the tumultuous final year of his life. The piece features a serene depiction of houses and a solitary figure, suggesting both isolation and resilience. Painted while Van Gogh resided at the asylum in Saint-Rémy, it serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring creativity despite personal struggles. Now housed in the Barnes Foundation, this work continues to captivate audiences.
Year 1890
About the Artwork
This painting reflects a significant moment in Vincent van Gogh's artistic journey. Completed in 1890, during his stay at the Saint-Rémy asylum, it showcases his ability to convey emotion and mood through vibrant color and intricate brushwork. Van Gogh’s mental health challenges profoundly influenced his artistry, yet he remained prolific, producing over 140 paintings in just 12 months. Houses and Figure illustrates his engagement with the surroundings of the asylum, where he found inspiration in the landscape, architecture, and people, blending them into the fabric of his emotional and expressive artistic language. The presence of the figure among the houses evokes a sense of solitude, perhaps reflecting Van Gogh’s own feelings of isolation while confronting his inner turmoil.
