Two previously unseen Van Gogh paintings will be exhibited at the Courtauld Gallery in London from 14 February to 26 May, as part of the exhibition “Goya to Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Oskar Reinhart Collection.” The paintings, created during Van Gogh’s time at a hospital in Arles following his ear mutilation, were acquired in the 1920s by Swiss collector Oskar Reinhart.

The featured works are “The Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles” and “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles.” Both paintings were completed in April 1889 when Van Gogh stayed at the hospital. The exhibition marks a rare opportunity for the public to view these masterpieces while the Reinhart museum is closed for renovations until January 2026.

“The Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles” showcases a vibrant garden setting, contrasting the artist’s internal turmoil. Van Gogh’s letter to his sister provides insight into the painting’s details, illustrating the beauty and vibrancy of the garden. The composition draws from Van Gogh’s admiration for Japanese art, featuring prominently placed trees and a serene pond.

Conversely, “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles” depicts a more claustrophobic space, showcasing the men’s ward with rows of curtained beds. Van Gogh’s description reveals a sterile environment marked by a crucifix, fusing personal and universal themes. Dr Félix Rey later speculated that Van Gogh may have included himself in the painting, hinting at a profound personal narrative.

The Arles hospital transitioned from a 1573 orphanage to a cultural centre in 1986. Today, it serves as a repository for documents related to Van Gogh’s stay, including the petition from neighbours calling for his confinement due to concerns about his behaviour. Visitors can explore this history alongside the vibrant artistry of Van Gogh through the upcoming exhibition.

The National Gallery’s prior exhibition, “Van Gogh: Poets & Lovers,” drew record crowds, reflecting the artist’s enduring appeal. In related news, artist Ai Weiwei will showcase a work inspired by Van Gogh at Lisson Gallery, demonstrating the lasting impact of Van Gogh’s artistry on contemporary creators.

The display at the Courtauld Gallery features two Van Gogh paintings that have not been seen in London before, highlighting his time in a hospital in Arles when he created these works following a traumatic incident. The exhibition provides an opportunity to see these pieces through a special collaboration while the Reinhart Collection’s museum undergoes renovations. The significance of Van Gogh’s experience during this period informs the narratives embodied in the artworks.

The upcoming exhibition at the Courtauld Gallery promises to be a significant event, showcasing the rarely seen Van Gogh masterpieces that reflect the artist’s struggles and creativity. With deep connections to his life experiences, the paintings serve as a testament to his artistic genius during a turbulent time, capturing both beauty and the reality of his circumstances.

Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com

The post Rare Van Gogh Paintings to be Exhibited at Courtauld Gallery first appeared on The London Bell.

Two Van Gogh paintings that have never before been displayed in London will be featured at the Courtauld Gallery from 14 February to 26 May 2024. These pieces, created during a time of personal turmoil for the artist, were acquired by Swiss collector Oskar Reinhart and have only recently become available for loan. The exhibition, entitled “Goya to Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Oskar Reinhart Collection,” showcases these significant works alongside others from Reinhart’s collection.

The two featured Van Goghs, “The Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles” and “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles,” were completed while Van Gogh was a patient in the Arles hospital in 1889. His experience was marked by emotional distress following the infamous ear incident and the departure of fellow artist Paul Gauguin. Despite this, the paintings exhibit a careful composition, reflecting both beauty and the artist’s inner turmoil during his stay.

“The Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles” captures an idyllic scene of the hospital’s garden, rich with flowers and greenery. Van Gogh’s detailed descriptions in letters to his sister highlight the vibrant life within and around the hospital, although the presence of dark tree trunks suggests a more somber undertone.

In contrast, “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles” depicts a sterile and claustrophobic men’s ward, showcasing Van Gogh’s struggle to capture the environment and its patients. The painting features muted colours and understated figures, inviting contemplation on the solitude and challenge of his mental state during that period.

The Courtauld Gallery will also house these two works as the Reinhart Museum prepares for renovations until 2026. Their addition to the exhibit represents an important moment in Van Gogh’s legacy, demonstrating the lasting impact of his time in the hospital setting.

Vincent van Gogh, a pivotal figure in post-Impressionism, created two notable paintings during his brief stay at the hospital in Arles. This period was significant for him both artistically and personally, reflecting his emotional struggles and the transformations in his art. The paintings in focus, “The Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles” and “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles,” depict contrasting atmospheres of beauty and confinement, representing the duality of his experience. Reinhart’s collection has only recently become available for public exhibitions, allowing London to witness these masterpieces for the first time.

The exhibition at the Courtauld Gallery, featuring Van Gogh’s “The Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles” and “The Ward in the Hospital at Arles,” encapsulates a significant chapter in the artist’s life, illustrating his resilience and artistic depth during personal crisis. With these two works, visitors gain insight into Van Gogh’s complex emotional landscape, captured through his distinctive style even in the face of adversity.

Original Source: theartnewspaper.com

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