The Sower done in 1888 by Vincent Van Gogh is an aesthetically pleasing piece. The works in progress explains the immense concentration, thought, consideration, and passion that went into the creation of this piece. It describes the many letters that Van Gogh wrote to various people. At one point in his creation, he wrote that the “excessive” contrast between the yellow and the violet shadows on the field would necessarily “irritate” the beholders eye. He also contemplated making the sowers trousers white in an effort to create a place in the painting that would “allow the eye to rest and distract it.” I am a little shocked to learn that the artist is giving so much concern to pleasing the viewer. Also, I am fascinated to learn that a Van Gogh spent so many days contemplating his next step. When I picture Van Gogh creating The Sower over a century ago, I see a man working in front of an easel. He works with a speed and swiftness that gives the appearance that
We must now discuss the colors and lack there of in each figure. In figure 108 two dominant colors are present; yellow and blue. The yellow and shades thereof give the viewer a feeling of calmness. The tranquility and naturalness of the sunlight are realistic to the beautiful day. However, the house, the large field, and the attire of the sower are all blue. Realistically, the field should not be blue. When looking at this piece the blue field should seem silly and out of place. Nevertheless, in my opinion, it is the exact opposite. The blue field seems natural and beautiful. In figure 109, two colors are also dominant; black and white. It is amazing what the lack of color can do to this similar picture. It makes it seem mysterious and almost like it is unfinished. The absence of the house and birds play a strong role in what the possible meaning of the piece is.
Van Gogh in my opinion did not have to work so hard to make this piece something that the viewer would enjoy looking at. This
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