Vincent Van Gogh, son of the manse: A portrait in self-psychology

Born into a dynasty of Dutch art dealers as well as the family of a Dutch Calvinist pastor, Vincent Van Gogh's turbulent and conflicted personality is the focus of a psychological interpretation beginning and ending with selections taken from the literary letters of the artist himself. The psychodynamic SelfPsychology of Heinz Kohut provides the theoretical framework for considering the tragic and redeeming aspects of this nineteenth century artistic genius and master Pre-Expressionist who painted the world as he experienced it. The reader may wish to accompany the story with a favorite collection of Van Gogh's drawings and paintings as a way of obtaining a deeper appreciation for the person known among art critics and school children alike as not only unforgettably strange and utterly fascinating, but wonderfully profound.Presbyterian minister and writer, dedicates this essay to the memory of Charles N. Davidson, M.D., 1912–1995, beloved father, faithful husband and abiding friend, a physician's physician. For an illustrated presentation about Van Gogh, given by the author in person for the benefit of counseling centers and other audiences.