Van Gogh’s representation of the flowers was highly original at the time. Flowers were always depicted at their most beautiful, but he has painted them after they have blossomed, when they have gone to seed and their stems are wilting. The painting has a remarkably dynamic character. This sense of movement results from the powerful brush strokes applied in various directions and the composition in which the sunflowers are arranged in sweeping movement on the canvas. The dramatic effect is heightened by the contrasting use of colours. The yellow-orange flowers contrast starkly with the blue background and the cut stems seem to float above the background, coming towards the viewer.
Press A for information about Van Gogh’s painting style, or press B for information about sunflowers in Van Gogh’s work.