Jo van Gogh-Bonger: The Woman Who Made Vincent Famous

Jo van Gogh-Bonger was the sister-in-law of Vincent van Gogh and devoted her life to disseminating his work, establishing his reputation as one of the finest artists of his generation. She successfully navigated the male-dominated art market, published his letters, organized exhibitions, and made strategic sales, changing how we view the relationship between the artist and his work. She also lived a rich and fascinating life, friends with eminent writers and artists, and active within the Social Democratic Labour Party and emerging womens movements.

Format: Hardback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

It is truly remarkable, after enduring years of public indifference and even hostility towards Vincent and his work, to reach the end of my life with the comforting realization that the battle has been won. This triumph is a selfless sacrifice in the name of Vincent's glory.

Jo van Gogh-Bonger, a lesser-known but no less influential figure, held a unique relationship with Vincent van Gogh. She was his sister-in-law, married to his brother, Theo. Tragically, both brothers passed away shortly after each other, leaving Jo to assume the responsibility of preserving Vincent's artistic legacy. Despite facing the challenges of being a widowed mother with a young son, Jo courageously navigated the male-dominated world of the art market. She tirelessly published Van Gogh's letters, organized exhibitions in the Netherlands and worldwide, and made strategic sales to private individuals and influential dealers. Through her efforts, Jo established Vincent's reputation as one of the finest artists of his generation.

What sets Jo apart is her profound impact on the perception of the artist's relationship with his work. She challenged the traditional notion of the artist as a solitary figure and instead presented him as a dynamic and interconnected part of the art world. Jo's unwavering dedication to spreading Vincent's art not only enriched our understanding of his genius but also reshaped our perspective on the creative process.

In addition to her professional achievements, Jo led a rich and fascinating life. She was friends with eminent writers and artists, and she actively participated in emerging women's movements. Her unwavering commitment to social justice and equality shone through in her involvement with the Social Democratic Labour Party.

Hans Luijten, in his captivating book, delves into the multi-faceted life of Jo van Gogh-Bonger. Through extensive research and the use of rich source material, including unseen diaries, documents, and letters, Luijten paints a vivid portrait of this visionary woman. His narrative unfolds like a captivating story, shedding light on Jo's struggles, triumphs, and the profound impact she had on the art world.

Jo van Gogh-Bonger's legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and art enthusiasts worldwide. Her unwavering dedication to her brother's art and her determination to break down barriers in the art market have left an indelible mark on the history of art. Her story serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the ability to transform the world through one's creativity.

Weight: 1386g
Dimension: 198 x 254 x 51 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350299580