Portrait of Alexander Reid 1887

Vincent van Gogh painted this portrait of Alexander Reid using oil on canvas. The surface is animated by dynamic, directional brushstrokes that construct the sitter’s likeness and evoke a sense of lively energy. Van Gogh’s use of complementary colors – red and green – creates contrast and visual tension. The composition emphasizes Reid’s face, drawing our attention to his gaze. The gaze meets the viewer directly, creating a sense of intimacy and psychological depth. Van Gogh's expressive brushwork and bold color choices reflect a departure from traditional portraiture, embracing subjective expression. This painting is not just a representation of Reid but an exploration of form, color, and the artist's inner experience. It invites ongoing interpretation, reflecting the complexities of human perception and representation.