Introduction

Vincent Van Gogh, a pivotal Dutch Post-Impressionist painter, produced more than twenty self-portraits during his Parisian sojourn (1886–88). Short of funds but determined nevertheless to hone his skills as a figure painter, he became his own best sitter: 'I purposely bought a good enough mirror to work from myself, for want of a model.' One such self-portrait is the Self-Portrait with Straw Hat [Summer 1887], which showcases Van Gogh's awareness of Neo-Impressionist technique and color theory.

Background

Postimpressionism, a predominantly French art movement that developed roughly between 1886 and 1905, emerged as a reaction against Impressionists' concern for the naturalistic depiction of light and colour. Postimpressionism encompasses Les Nabis, Neo-Impressionism, Symbolism, Cloisonnism, the Pont-Aven School, and Synthetism, along with some later Impressionists' work. The movement's principal artists were Paul Cézanne (known as the father of Postimpressionism), Paul Gauguin, Vincent van Gogh and Georges Seurat.

Characteristics

Postimpressionists extended Impressionism while rejecting its limitations: they continued using vivid colours, sometimes using impasto (thick application of paint) and painting from life, but were more inclined to emphasize geometric forms, distort form for expressive effect, and use unnatural or modified colour. The movement's artists sought to express their emotions and ideas through colour, and often used unnaturally bright and vibrant colours to do so. They also began to abandon the traditional three-dimensional perspective in favour of a more two-dimensional aesthetic, which allowed them to focus on the flat surface of the canvas and create a sense of depth and space using colour and form alone.

Self-Portrait with Straw Hat [Summer 1887]

This self-portrait is one of several that are painted on the reverse of an earlier peasant study, reflecting Van Gogh's resourcefulness in reusing materials to create art. The painting showcases his awareness of Neo-Impressionist technique and color theory, with its vivid colours and bold brushstrokes. The straw hat, a common accessory in many of Van Gogh's self-portraits, adds a touch of casualness and authenticity to the portrait.

Conclusion

Self-Portrait with Straw Hat [Summer 1887] is an excellent example of Vincent Van Gogh's mastery of Postimpressionism. The painting showcases his ability to use vivid colours and bold brushstrokes to create a sense of depth and space, while also expressing his emotions and ideas through the canvas. As a leading artist in the Postimpressionist movement, Van Gogh's work continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

Acquiring Your Own Reproduction

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