Arles

Arles was a place in France. It was located south of Paris.

Exhausted and struggling with depression in February 1888, Vincent van Gogh decided to move to Arles. The bright and colourful countryside there proved inspirational for Vincent and his paintings grew more vibrant and colourful. He produced works including The Night Café, The Café Terrace and various still life paintings of sunflowers.

Vincent's friend, Paul Gauguin, joined him in Arles in October 1888, but their relationship deteriorated to the point that Vincent threated his friend with a razor blade. Gauguin left Arles and Vincent for good, while Vincent mutilated one of his ears in a delirious, drunken rage. He was hospitalised for a time, then briefly returned home. His neighbours gave him the name 'foux roux' - "the drunken madman" and signed a petition to have him evicted. Vincent was admitted to an asylum 20 miles away in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. (PROSE: Vincent van Gogh)