Vincent van Gogh, the renowned Dutch painter, created some of the world’s most captivating and inspiring works of art during his short but prolific career. His unique post-impressionist style, characterised by bold colours and expressive brushstrokes, continues to enchant art enthusiasts around the world.
Recently, in part thanks to ‘Emily in Paris’, there has been a wave of immersive Van Gogh exhibits, offering a chance to step into the world of Van Gogh from floor to ceiling, all over the world. A renewed interest in his work – did it ever go away? – has followed.
Whilst you perhaps wouldn’t want to cover the entirety of your walls with his paintings like in those immersive exhibits, or have a self-portrait of the iconic, troubled painter looking down on you while you sleep, some of Van Gogh’s bold depictions of rural life can certainly help shape the overall aesthetic of your domestic space for the better. Today, we’re exploring some of the best Van Gogh paintings to display at home.
Sunflowers (1888)
Sunflowers showcases a vivid bouquet of sunflowers in various stages of bloom, set against a rich yellow background. The warm, radiant hues and thick, textured brushstrokes create a sense of depth and dimension, making the flowers appear almost tangible.
Van Gogh painted several versions of Sunflowers during his time in Arles, France. These paintings were initially intended to decorate the Yellow House, where he hoped to establish an artists’ community with fellow painter Paul Gauguin. The Sunflowers series is considered one of his most important and recognizable works.
This cheerful and inviting painting would be an excellent addition to a kitchen or dining area, where its vibrant colours can stimulate conversation and create a welcoming atmosphere for family and friends.
The sunflower paintings had a special significance for Van Gogh; they communicated ‘gratitude’, he wrote.
According to Harvard, “gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships”. Yep, hanging this painting in your home may help you focus on the positive aspects of your life, too.
Starry Night (1889)
Regularly topping any famous Van Gogh paintings list, Starry Night was created during his stay at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France. The painting is believed to depict the view from his window at the asylum, showcasing the night sky and the village below.
Starry Night is a mesmerising depiction of swirling stars and a glowing crescent moon dominating the night sky. The vibrant blues and yellows contrast with the dark silhouettes of the cypress trees and the sleepy village beneath. The expressive brushstrokes evoke a sense of movement and energy that seems to bring the scene to life.
This iconic masterpiece would make a stunning focal point in a living room or bedroom, where its soothing colours and enchanting imagery can inspire relaxation and contemplation.
Almond Blossoms (1890)
Van Gogh painted Almond Blossoms, which features delicate white almond blossoms against a brilliant blue sky, as a gift for his brother Theo and sister-in-law Jo to celebrate the birth of their son, Vincent Willem. The painting was inspired by Japanese ukiyo-e prints, which Van Gogh greatly admired. The intricate network of branches creates an elegant contrast with the softness of the flowers, while the composition’s simplicity exudes a sense of tranquillity and serenity.
The calming and sophisticated nature of this painting makes it a perfect choice for a bedroom or home office, where it can inspire focus and relaxation, equally.
Cafe Terrace At Night (1888)
For a vibrant and dynamic composition that’s sure to spark conversation and set a lively mood for social gatherings, Cafe Terrace at Night would be an excellent addition to a living room or hosting space.
Cafe Terrace at Night is one of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings from his time in Arles. It depicts a bustling cafe scene on the Place du Forum, a popular square in the city centre.
In this painting, Van Gogh captures the warm glow of the cafe’s gaslights illuminating the terrace and spilling onto the cobblestone street. The vibrant yellows, blues, and oranges create a lively and inviting atmosphere, while the silhouettes of the patrons add a sense of depth and intrigue. Should you be keen to project a similar depth and sense of mystery, this one’s for you!
Irises (1889)
Irises were among the first paintings Van Gogh created during his stay at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum. The painting was influenced by Japanese woodblock prints and is considered one of his most significant floral works, and features a stunning array of purple irises against a backdrop of lush green foliage. The varying shades of purple and the detailed rendering of the flowers’ delicate petals create a sense of depth and movement, while the contrasting yellows and greens add visual interest and balance.
This captivating painting would make a beautiful statement piece in a hallway, where its vibrant colours and intricate details can be admired by visitors and residents alike, giving a flavour of the personality that lies further into the home.
The Potato Eaters (1885)
The Potato Eaters, an iconic masterpiece by Vincent van Gogh, has long captivated the hearts and minds of art enthusiasts around the world. Painted in 1885, this oil on canvas piece offers a glimpse into the daily lives of peasants in the rural Netherlands.
In this work, Van Gogh masterfully captures the essence of a humble family sharing a simple meal of potatoes, gathered around a dimly lit table. The artist’s choice of dark, earthy tones, rough brushstrokes, and the intense facial expressions of the subjects exude a raw, emotional energy that speaks to the human condition.
Van Gogh’s intention with The Potato Eaters was to depict the honest and hardworking nature of the peasant class. He deliberately avoided idealising the scene, instead opting for a realistic representation that highlights the roughness and coarseness of their lives. The use of chiaroscuro adds depth to the composition, while the subtle glow emanating from the hanging oil lamp serves as a symbol of warmth and unity within the family. This powerful artwork reminds viewers of the importance of appreciating life’s simple pleasures and the bonds forged through shared experiences.
When considering where to display The Potato Eaters in one’s home, it is essential to select a space that allows for quiet contemplation and reflection on the themes presented in the painting. A dining room or kitchen (obvs.) would be an ideal location, as it would serve as a poignant reminder of the significance of sharing meals with loved ones.
The earthy colour palette of the painting would complement natural materials such as wood, stone, or rustic metal accents. Proper lighting should also be considered, as it will enhance the dramatic effect of the chiaroscuro and emphasise the sense of intimacy created by the dimly lit scene.
The Bottom Line
Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces are timeless treasures that continue to captivate and inspire viewers with their beauty, emotion, and unique style. By incorporating one or more of these iconic paintings into your home decor, you can create a visually stunning and culturally rich living space that reflects your appreciation for the arts and pays homage to one of history’s most influential artists, and experience the full power of his pieces in the comfort of your own home.
