Learn about the impasto painting technique through Vincent van Gogh’s Roses, painted in 1890. Discover what impasto is and why van Gogh’s thick, textured brushstrokes enliven his paintings. This still life of pink roses (now faded) contrasts beautifully with mint green tones, but it’s the rich, sculptural paint that gives the work its movement and emotion. Van Gogh’s use of impasto can also be seen in his iconic Starry Night, where swirling skies and bold strokes create a sense of movement.

Speaker: Dr. Lauren Kilroy-Ewbank

CHAPTERS

0:00 Vincent van Gogh’s Roses

0:48 Defining Impasto

1:12 Impasto in van Gogh's painting

2:21 Applying paint

2:35 Comparison with other artists (Rachel Ruysch) and the term painterly

2:55 Emotion and drama in painting

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