Starry Starry Night




Journal writings of Van Gogh projected onto the floor and walls at Imagine Van Gogh Art Installation, Saskatoon, 2021.

Enthralled with the creative process, I find thumbnail sketches on napkins, or the jotting of rough ideas in journals as interesting as the finished works. Immersed in ceiling to floor images, one connects with the vibrant palette of hues and thick energetic brush strokes of Vincent Van Gogh. Sadly, Van Gogh's art was never appreciated during his lifetime. So it is with many things over many lifetimes; what is thought strange or impossible at one time can later become a reality, newly respected, or even revered as genius. 150 years ago Van Gogh's depressed state and manic episodes of painting were misunderstood. Today, as we learn more about diversity, mental health issues, the effects of trauma, addictions, and so on, stigmas are somewhat lifted. The fear of asking for help becomes easier as we grow to accept our uniqueness, weaknesses or imperfections.

Vincent continued to paint in a manner that was true to himself. "Just do you."



Now, I understand what you tried to say to me
And how you suffered for your sanity
And how you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they did not know how
Perhaps they'll listen now.
~ Don Mclean from Starry Night lyrics

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