Starry Night

 The visual appeal of The Starry Night is undeniable, drawing viewers in with its bold, swirling brushstrokes and dynamic use of space. The combination of energy and calmness gives the artwork an intriguing balance. The brushstrokes themselves are also a significant factor in the painting's visual appeal. Van Gogh's expressive strokes create a sense of rhythm and energy in the sky, while the smoother strokes of the village contribute to a calm, grounded feeling. He uses color to deepen the emotional impact. The rich palette of blues, yellows, and whites create a dramatic contrast between the night sky and the light of the stars and moon. This contrast not only creates visual impact but also evokes a sense of wonder and awe. The brush strokes create lines to contribute to the meaning of the painting.

Van Gogh’s choice of complementary colors—blue and yellow—also contributes to the dynamic interplay of light and dark. The swirling sky is largely a mix of blues and whites, but the addition of vibrant yellow creates a stark contrast, making the stars appear almost alive. The contrast of colors deepen the emphasis of the painting.

The composition of The Starry Night is dynamic and purposeful, with the viewer's eye naturally drawn to the swirling sky and the glowing stars. The vertical line of the cypress tree in the foreground adds an interesting focal point and acts as a visual bridge between the earth and the heavens. The cypress’s dark, thick form contrasts with the lighter sky and creates a sense of grounding, which balances the ethereal quality of the sky above. The use of perspective, with the sweeping lines and swirling clouds, allows the viewer to experience the scene as if they are engulfed in it, contributing to the immersive quality of the painting. The composition of the sky itself is not symmetrical, but the flow of shapes and colors creates a harmonious rhythm that guides the viewer’s eye across the canvas.

Overall, Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night is more than appealing. The use of principles of design not only makes it more attractive, but it also makes it more emotional. His use of lines and contrast add more life to the painting. Furthermore, the blue and yellow make the stars and sky speak more and give a sense of calmness in the night. The composition allows for more motion in the painting, which allows to fully identify the scene painted. This painting really speaks to me because the moon and stars add ease and entity.