Different picture of ‘mad’ painter
A DEAKIN University psychiatry expert says the public perception of Vincent van Gogh as a mad genius could be a myth.
Deakin Centre for Innovation in Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Treatment director Michael Berk said the “crazy artist stereotype” was unhelpful, and there was very little evidence to suggest the Dutch impressionist’s true state of mind.
“He’s been retrospectively diagnosed with bipolar disorder, as well as psychosis and maybe even autistic-like behaviours,” Prof Berk said.
“When he cut off his ear it was most likely in a psychotic episode, but all we can really do is speculate because there is little evidence on his state of mind.”
Some of van Gogh’s most famous works are on display at Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria until July 9 as part of the Van Gogh and the Seasons exhibition.
Prof Berk will take part in a panel discussion at NGV on Tuesday delving into “The Myth of the Troubled Genius”, alongside University of Melbourne art historian Anthony White and ABC Radio National presenter Lynne Malcolm.
“We want to get away from the notion that creative people are mentally unwell, or that some degree of illness is necessary for creativity,” Prof Berk said.
He said the “vast majority of artists are not crazy”, but acknowledged creativity could be a helpful tool for people to make sense of turmoil.
“Creativity is often an adaptive and healthy way of making sense of a world that is difficult, dealing with the complexity, distress and confusion of life,” he said.
“The factors allowing you to be more creative, think outside the box, are sometimes amplified to the point that it goes too far, and you might lose contact with reality.”