It makes complete sense for a figure so firmly established in the popular mind to have his life expressed in the popular medium of comics. But it’s comics that we turn to for its unique narrative. However, comics has the intrinsic ability to pare down and provide communication in a more direct manner. They are more related to each other than you might think. Comics and painting share many things in common. What is so remarkable about this book is how the power of comics can shed light on another medium, painting. It is when his friend and fellow artist Paul Gauguin refuses to reside permanently at the Yellow House, that Van Gogh cuts off part of his ear. When he finds the right balance of solitude and beauty in the south of France, he dreams of an artists’ studio in Arles.

We gain a greater understanding of Van Gogh’s mental illness. However, we find here that is not the case.

Popular belief has it as his strange way of proving his love for a local woman. The most infamous moment during his life is, of course, the cutting off of part of his ear. Published by SelfMadeHero, as part of their exciting new Art Masters series, we find in these 144 pages another way to appreciate Van Gogh’s life and art and even get some clarity regarding the myth surrounding Van Gogh. In this new graphic novel by Dutch illustrator Barbara Stok, we have a new look at this icon. VINCENT is an inviting look at Vincent Van Gogh, the epitome of the tortured artist.

Vincent by barbara stok