Vincent and Me

» biogardener - van Gogh exhibit in Winnipeg

During my early university years, Winnipeg was fortunate enough to host the traveling exhibit of the works of Vincent van Gogh. It was the first exhibit here that charged admission and there was a steady stream of visitors. The works evoke very powerful emotions in people because they were created with overwhelming emotions. Sometimes I wonder whether his art helped Vincent deal with his problems or whether it intensified them.

When I went through intense despair a few years ago, I painted some watercolors which have been described as superior to any of my previous works by professional artists. I know that they are well-done technically, but I cannot stand to look at them. The best of them is a flower arrangement dominated by green and purple, a most depressing color combination. Of course, that was my problem at the time, depression. When I look at it, I relive those emotions. I don't need that.

That picture is technically perfect, in Chinese style on rice paper, but it has not sold. I suppose that no one else wants to look at depressing colors either.

-- posted by biogardener

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» eleanorstrong - Vincent and Me

Dear Mr. McManamy,

My first real contact with the works of Vincent Van Gogh was in young adulthood; my 20's I think. I was drawn to his use of intense color and bold strokes. I didn't know I was hypomanic at the time and whether that had anything to do with the attraction, I don't know. I did know that I struggled with bouts of depression that broke through treatment with Nortriptylene. Regardless, his paintings touched me.

Twenty-five years later I had my first full blown manic episode. I became obsessed with Van Gogh's work. I didn't have alot of money, but I bought every print of his paintings that I could find. I filled my bedroom with them. And I read everything I could about him. I learned that he was manic/depressive before I knew that I was. When I was finally diagnosed, I was almost delighted. I felt that he was my friend. After all, I had recognized myself in some of his paintings. It was as if he knew me.

I felt we were kindred spirits, except I found relief. He never did. Medicine has made the pain manageable for me. He was trapped. I feel so sad for him. I wish that I had been a friend for him. Is that silly?

When I saw the link to this article I thought "Oh, my old friend". I was suprised at the different emotions I felt as I read "Vincent and Me". The last one was great sadness. I also feel grateful that in spite of so much suffering he gave us so much beauty.

Thanks for putting me back in touch with an "old friend".

Eleanor Strong

-- posted by eleanorstrong

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» Dantessa - Re: van Gogh exhibit in Winnipeg

One of my favourite songs has always been "Vincent" by Don McLean, which I think does beautiful justice to Vincent van Gogh's life and artistry. As well as does a good job putting into words some of the emotions of depression & mental illness.
This is a good link about the song, with lyrics & info:
http://www.vangoghgallery.com/misc/mclea...

-- posted by Dantessa

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