Van Gogh:

In “The Potato Eaters,” I employed a range of techniques that aligned with the objectives of the painting. This work, completed in 1885, was one of my more ambitious projects from my early career, intended to depict the harsh reality of peasant life. Here are some of the techniques and stylistic choices I used:

Earthy Color Palette: I chose subdued, earthy tones to reflect the somber and difficult life of the peasants. This included various shades of browns, greens, and grays, helping to create a sense of realism and gravity.

Thick Brushwork: My brushwork in this painting was thick and coarse, which added texture and a sense of ruggedness to the scene. This choice of brushwork was in keeping with the subject matter, as it reflected the rough, unpolished lives of the subjects.

Emphasis on Hands and Faces: I focused on the hands and faces of the peasants, highlighting their rough and weathered appearances. This was to convey the hard labor they endured and the hardships of their lives.

Dim Lighting: The setting of the painting is illuminated by a single lamp, casting shadows and creating a stark contrast between light and dark. This lighting choice added to the dramatic and solemn mood of the painting.

Realism and Detail: I aimed for a high level of realism and detail in this painting, capturing the textures of the clothes, the food, and the interior of the peasant home. This was a conscious effort to truthfully represent the life of the peasants.

Composition and Perspective: The arrangement of figures around the table and the perspective used, create a sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing the viewer into the scene.

“The Potato Eaters” was a significant work in my oeuvre, marking a period where I was deeply influenced by the social conditions of the time and was striving to convey a message about the lives of the working class.