When we think of tortured geniuses, few come to mind as quickly as Vincent van Gogh. Throughout his decade-long career, he battled extreme poverty, debilitating psychotic episodes, and profound isolation. Whether accurate or not, many credit his artistic talent to this series of struggles. His most celebrated masterpieces often unwittingly serve as “proof” that creativity is linked to insanity and emotional suffering in some way.

However, many don’t know that van Gogh would have likely never reached this legendary “mad genius” status had it not been for the tireless efforts of his less famous sister-in-law.

The van Gogh family member history nearly forgot

Johanna Bonger, after some persistent wooing, became the wife of Theo van Gogh, Vincent’s devoted brother and reputable art dealer, who worked with the likes of Degas and Monet. 

One of Theo’s dreams was to help........

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