Skip to content

Artist Quote by Vincent Van Gogh

“I want to do drawings which touch some people... In either figure or landscape I wish to express, not sentimental melancholy, but serious sorrow.” quote by Vincent Van Gogh
Download Open image
“I want to do drawings which touch some people... In either figure or landscape I wish to express, not sentimental melancholy, but serious sorrow.”

Vincent Van Gogh

About This Quote

Source Letter: Letter to Theo, 1882

He aims to convey deep, genuine sorrow through art rather than sentimental melancholy.

In simple terms: Express serious sorrow, not sentimentality.

Key Takeaway

Create art that evokes authentic sorrow.

Themes

art emotion authenticity

Mood

reflective poignant

Type

artistic emotive

When to use this quote

  • exhibitions
  • personal projects
  • gallery shows
  • public installations

Key Concepts

sorrow serious expression visual storytelling

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ensure your sorrow resonates without becoming melodramatic?
  • What techniques convey seriousness over sentiment?
A Different Perspective

Balancing emotional depth with audience reception can be challenging.

4.2 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Vincent Van Gogh

Explore all 508 Vincent Van Gogh quotes

More Artist quotes

Browse all 32,600 Artist quotes