Starry Night Interpretation By: Matt Dumbroff

Earlier in the week, we examined a famous painting entitled "Screaming Man", and went into depth interpreting the painting. I would like to examine another famous painting, one that most are familiar with called "Starry Night" by Van Gogh. Below is a picture of the revolutionary painting.

This widely known painting set into motion what was known as the impressionist painting movement. In this piece Van Gogh showcases sweeping brush strokes and an organic feel. The renowned piece is also wide thought provoking and open to interpretation. Many critics claim that this was Van Gogh's view from his cell in the mental asylum to which the visionary artist was confined. My interpretation of this is one of despair and isolation. I view this painting as Van Gogh looking in on a world which he may never become a part of, confined eternally to a prison cell of isolation, with bars forged of self-conflict, accompanied by self loathing and despair. This conflict is shown through the deep contrast of colors in the background, as well as the irresistibly close town which has an unperceivable depth to it, making it ironically seem so close, yet impossibly far away. The artist's mixed feelings are further demonstrated by the rigid, straight lines in the town, with comparison to the free-flowing lines in the sky. This is my interpretation of the thought provoking painting "starry night" by Vincent Van Gogh.