Scientists discover real-world physics 'hidden' in Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night [View all]

Legendary artist captured physics of atmosphere with ‘surprising accuracy’, researchers say

Vishwam Sankaran
Sunday 29 September 2024 07:35

Vincent van Gogh’s iconic painting The Starry Night depicts the precise real-world physics behind cloud and air movement in the sky, according to a new study which says the legendary artist had an intuitive understanding of the natural world.

The painting, made in June 1889, has enamoured millions for over a century with its depiction of a swirling blue sky, yellow moon, and stars using an explosion of colours and shapes.

Each star in the legendary painting is encapsulated in ripples of yellow, gleaming with light-like reflections on water.

The troubled artist’s pioneering brushstrokes create an illusion of sky movement.

Now, scientists have analyzed van Gogh’s painting to uncover what they call the “hidden turbulence” in the painter’s depiction of the sky.



Scientists analyse spacing of brush strokes in van Gogh’s ‘The Starry Night’ (Yinxiang Ma)

More:
https://www.the-independent.com/news/science/starry-night-vincent-van-gogh-physics-b2620813.html