La Maison de La Crau

Key Points

• Location and Inspiration: Van Gogh was inspired by the vibrant light and colors of southern France, which significantly influenced his work during his time in Arles. He produced over 200 paintings in the 15 months he spent there.
• Subject: The painting depicts an old mill, commonly known as 'tabatière' or 'Jonquet,' which was a familiar landmark in the area.
• Technique: Van Gogh used a thick application of paint, exaggerated angles, and vibrant colors to capture the essence of the scene. This approach was characteristic of his style, where he used color to express his feelings rather than merely to describe the subject accurately.
• Brushwork and Criticism: Despite criticism for working quickly, Van Gogh's careful brushwork is evident in this painting. He varied the direction of his paint to delineate different parts of the landscape, reflecting his thoughtful approach to each piece before beginning to paint.

Style and Influence

Van Gogh's work during this period was marked by a significant departure from realistic representations, instead emphasizing expressive use of color and form. This was part of his broader innovation in freeing color from its descriptive function.

Overall, La Maison de La Crauis a testament to Van Gogh's unique style and his ability to capture the beauty and essence of the landscapes he encountered.