Van Gogh’s painting, “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles” (1889), is now on display at Courtauld Gallery in London, a significant event since this piece hasn’t been seen publicly for a century. The artwork reflects Van Gogh’s personal experience during his hospital stay after he mutilated his ear. It is part of the exhibition showcasing works from the Oskar Reinhart collection.

This is Van Gogh’s only painting depicting the hospital’s interior. In 1923, it was purchased by Elizabeth Workman and later acquired by Reinhart. The exhibition also features another of Van Gogh’s works, “Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles,” adding to the showcase from Reinhart’s collection.

In a letter to his brother Theo after entering the hospital, Van Gogh expressed his thoughts on the experience, writing about the fascinating aspects of hospital life. After multiple incidents concerning his mental health, he was under the care of Dr. Félix Rey, an intern who played a critical role in his treatment.

Despite being confined, Van Gogh was determined to continue painting, focusing on the ward he occupied. His frustration with limited freedom led him to explore and depict his surroundings, making the hospital’s interior his subject. The painting’s perspective creates an illusion of length, enhanced by the crucifix above the chapel door.

Van Gogh completed the work in late April 1889 while preparing to leave for an asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. He enhanced the painting months later by adding figures, showing his ongoing connection to the work. Uniquely, the painting remains unlined, preserving the integrity of Van Gogh’s thick paint.

The original hospital building was transformed into an arts centre in 1986, but regrettably, the men’s ward was demolished. Had it been preserved, it would have drawn many tourists, interested in Van Gogh’s legacy. The arts centre now houses a library and municipal archives, but the loss of the actual ward represents a significant historical gap.

The return of Van Gogh’s “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles” to London is a noteworthy occasion, highlighting the artist’s hospital experiences. The exhibition showcases the painting alongside others from the Oskar Reinhart collection. Unfortunately, the original hospital ward has been lost to demolition but still holds historical significance. The new arts centre serves the community, yet many regret the missed opportunity of preserving Van Gogh’s actual ward.

Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com

The post Van Gogh’s Hospital Painting Returns to London After a Century first appeared on The London Bell.

Two important Van Gogh paintings, created during his recovery at a hospital after the infamous ear incident, are making their debut in London. These works, “The Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles” and “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles,” will be featured at the Courtauld Gallery’s upcoming exhibition from February 14 to May 26. Previously held in Switzerland for over a century, they will provide insights into Van Gogh’s state of mind at the time.

Both paintings were painted in April 1889 while Van Gogh was a patient in Arles. Acquired in the 1920s by Swiss collector Oskar Reinhart, they have been displayed in his museum near Zurich. The courtyard painting, notable for its vibrant depiction of spring flowers and possibly featuring a self-portrait of Van Gogh, especially showcases the artist’s skill with composition influenced by Japanese art.

Interestingly, Reinhart outbid the National Gallery in London in 1922 to acquire “The Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles”—a turn of events that allowed the gallery to later purchase the more famous “Sunflowers” at a lower price. The upcoming exhibition represents a rare chance to see both paintings after the Reinhart museum temporarily closes for renovations, offering visitors exclusive access to a tumultuous period in Van Gogh’s life.

This exhibition comes at a significant time, as it marks 133 years since the paintings were created while Van Gogh was a patient. The works are not only rare displays of his artistic prowess but also personal reflections of his emotional turmoil during recovery from a mental health crisis. The inclusion of these pieces in London highlights both their art historical significance and their narrative on an artist’s life.

The London exhibition of Van Gogh’s previously unseen paintings offers a unique glimpse into the artist’s recovery and creative process. This rare event invites art lovers to appreciate not only the technical mastery of the works but also the emotional depth and historical context that surrounds them. Their return to public view is a significant highlight for the city’s art scene.

Original Source: thelagosreview.ng

The post Van Gogh’s Iconic Hospital Paintings Make London Debut After Century first appeared on The London Bell.