 | In his thirty-seven years, Vincent van Gogh practically created the archetype of the artist as unknown, tortured, starving genius. Now almost as well known for his persona of mad anguish (best typified in the infamous ear-mutilation incident of 1888) as for his paintings, the anonymity in which he lived his life ironically underscores the radical nature of his work within an historical context. He profoundly influenced the Expressionist and Fauvists (along with the majority of 20th century art) through his bold use of color, distorted perspective, coarse brushwork, and emotionally explosive style. |