Vincent van Gogh — Timeline
Key moments in the life of Vincent van Gogh.
1853
Born on March 30 in Groot-Zundert, North Brabant, Netherlands
1869
Began work as an art dealer's apprentice at Goupil & Cie in The Hague
1878
Started missionary work among coal miners in Borinage, Belgium
1880
Decided to become an artist and began formal art training in Brussels
1886
Moved to Paris and studied at various academies; began developing his distinctive style
1888
Moved to Arles, France; painted 'Starry Night' and other iconic works during this prolific period
1889
Admitted to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence asylum after the ear incident; continued painting intensely
1890
Moved to Auvers-sur-Oise and worked under Dr. Gachet's care while maintaining artistic output
1890
Shot himself on July 27; died two days later on July 29 from his injuries
1901
First major retrospective exhibition held in Paris, beginning his posthumous recognition as a master