I’ve never been interested in art, nor was I a fan of any artist who created famous paintings that were displayed in museums for others to admire as masterpieces. Sometimes I consider the paintings are meaningless, and I wonder why these painters spent so much time creating art only to have it judged by how they painted or drew it. But as I grew older, I realized that these paintings had a deeper meaning and that it was all about the artists’ feelings and emotions that were left unsaid but were expressed through art.

The painting that has captured my attention is “The Starry Night” by Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh. He painted The Starry Night during his 12-month stay at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France, a few months after suffering a breakdown in which he severed a portion of his own ear with a razor. Throughout his life, he battled mental illness and insanity. Nobody understood him and even judged him. When he committed suicide at the time, it was both sinful and immortal, and yet those people around him stigmatized his condition. His paintings convey a sense of hope. He appears to be emphasizing that even on a dark night like this, light can be seen through the windows of the houses. Moreover, with a sky full of stars, there is always light to guide you. He also seemed to to be cured of his illness and to have found his heaven.

The unfortunate truth about being an artist or a painter is that your work will only be valued and acknowledged after your death. Nonetheless, He may suffered greatly as a result of his mental illness. He became an inspiration to others who have had similar experiences as him, making us realize how important it is to remember that there is still hope in our darkest times. When there is darkness, it can help you see the light again. It is okay to be upset and to express your feelings because all emotions are valid. You are not alone, and you are deserving of respect. What matters is that you assist yourself and work hard to overcome your own obstacles. Never give up hope because there is always hope in every situation.