The Learning Journey of an Artist

Earlier this year, I finally visited the National Gallery’s Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers exhibition—just before it closed in January. Like many Londoners, I am often guilty of thinking I will catch exhibitions “later,” but the news of a 24-hour opening to meet demand gave me a much-needed nudge. I picked up a National Gallery membership and made time to go.

What I did not expect was how much the experience would resonate with me as someone working in learning and development.

Van Gogh’s story became more than just a tale of artistic genius—it offered rich, emotional insight into what it means to learn, persist, and grow. I found myself drawing parallels between his creative journey and the realities of adult learning, feedback, emotional engagement, and professional resilience.

Here are four reflections I took away—lessons that continue to shape how I approach learning design and development.

1. Learning Through Perseverance

Van Gogh began painting at 27, after trying various professions. Though late by today's standards, it was unusual for his time. Despite financial difficulties, personal isolation, mental health struggles, and self-doubt, he pursued his passion relentlessly.

His story shows that it is never too late to learn. Perseverance is an essential part of learning. Van Gogh’s resilience reminds us to embrace challenges and stay committed, even when progress feels slow.

2. Growth Through Feedback and Collaboration

Van Gogh’s younger brother Theo, a successful art dealer, played a key role in his development. Theo provided financial and emotional support, introduced Vincent to art circles, and helped him connect with artists like Paul Gauguin and Georges Seurat.

Vincent also drew inspiration from Japanese prints, which were gaining popularity in Europe. This influence is evident in works like The Sower (1888), inspired by Japanese aesthetics and Jean-François Millet’s rural labour depictions.

Learning thrives in environments of collaboration and feedback. Like Vincent, we can benefit from constructive input and shared perspectives. Nothing is achieved in isolation.

During my visit, I was struck by the conversations around me. One Irish family pointed out the tiny red diamonds in The Large Plane Trees. This communal experience highlighted how discussion can deepen understanding, much like the interplay of ideas among artists in Van Gogh’s time.

3. Finding Inspiration Everywhere

In Arles, Van Gogh found beauty in the unremarkable. A seemingly ordinary garden inspired many transformative works, demonstrating his ability to reimagine his surroundings through creativity and imagination.

This resonated with me as I reflected on how learning can extend beyond traditional environments. As I pursue my Level 7 CIPD qualification, I dedicate Fridays to studying modules like “Designing Learning to Improve Performance.” My visit to the exhibit became an opportunity to draw parallels between Van Gogh’s ability to transform the mundane and the creative process of designing impactful learning solutions. It reminded me that inspiration can be found in everyday experiences.

4. The Role of Emotion in Learning

Van Gogh infused his work with raw emotion, making it deeply impactful. His expressive brushwork and vibrant colours conveyed his inner struggles and joys. The Weeping Tree (1889), created with black and brown ink, exudes melancholy, reflecting his emotional state.

Learning is enhanced by emotional engagement. Genuine interest and curiosity not only make learning enjoyable but also improve retention, motivation, and connection. Emotional engagement fosters deeper understanding and encourages learners to approach knowledge authentically.

Van Gogh’s life teaches us that creativity and learning often emerge from complex emotions. They also underscore the importance of compassion—for ourselves and others. In today’s fast-paced world, we must create spaces for reflection and support to thrive both personally and professionally.

As I walked through the exhibit, I left not only inspired by Van Gogh’s artistry but with a renewed appreciation for the transformative power of learning—guided by perseverance, collaboration, imagination, and emotional depth.

Van Gogh’s story is a powerful reminder that progress and learning are rarely linear. His life teaches us to celebrate our achievements, no matter how small, and to approach our personal growth with compassion. True growth emerges when we pair ambition with empathy—not just for those around us, but for ourselves as well. In moments of struggle, it is vital to prioritise our mental health, allowing us to channel our creativity and resilience into meaningful learning and growth. Let his legacy inspire us to view challenges not as setbacks, but as brushstrokes in the masterpiece of our journey.