We are on the Path of Van Gogh

Overnight the ship cruised only a short distance from Paris to Conflans.

While docked in Conflans, we board a bus to go to Auvers-Sur-Oise, where Vincent Van Gogh lived during the last few months of his life.

Upon arrival, we meet our local guide, who tells us a little about Van Gogh's life.

An impoverished artist, Van Gogh sold only one painting during his life.  He depended on financial assistance from his brother, Theodore, to continue to paint. The last 3 months of his life were spent in the little town of Auvers, where a statute of him stands by the City Hall.

Several of his most famous works were painted during his stay in Auvers.  We set out on a path to see a few of them.

We first stop by the Town Hall.  This is what it looks like today.

This is what Van Gogh painted in 1890.

He rented a tiny room at the Auberge Ravoux, which is now a restaurant, but the room has remained unchanged since his death in 1890.

There is a plaque describing the family who owned the building in 1890. 

Standing in the doorway of the building photo is Adeline Ravoux, who Van Gogh painted twice.

Along the walk we find more plaques showing the sites that inspired Van Gogh to paint.  He created about 2,100 artworks; 860 is just the last two years of his life.

Some of the paintings in Auvers by Van Gogh

Our walk led us to this staircase up through the trees.

And this is Van Gogh's painting.  His works reflect how his mind saw the scene, not necessarily how it looked.

Off we go up the staircase toward the church that Van Gogh painted.

Some of the buildings along our way.

The Notre-Dame Auvers

And Van Gogh's painting of the church

From the church we headed over to the cemetery where Van Gogh and his beloved brother, Theodore are buried.

Here our guide is explaining what is believed to be the corn field where Van Gogh ultimately shot himself.  He died a few days later on 29 July 1890 in his room above the restaurant.

Back on the ship, we set sail on the river that inspired the Impressionist artists to paint natural, outdoor scenes.

It was a great day walking in the footsteps of one of the most famous Impressionist artists.

Next, we visit the area where Monet lived and painted.  To continue reading, scroll down and click on "Newer Post".