Self portrait with Vin and Paul

In the Yellow House

Over the Christmas holidays I read The Yellow House by Martin Gayford, an account of the nine weeks Van Gogh and Gauguin spent together in Arles.

Living for two weeks with the original odd couple, I became absorbed in their relationship, joined in their arguments, walked with them as they wandered Arles looking for inspiration.

I envied Gauguin the bedroom that Van Gogh had specially prepared for him--one sunflower painting on each wall. I was relieved when Gauguin took over the cooking. I wanted to write Theo to send me money too!

In the end, I felt I must paint my own self-portrait as thanks for enjoying the honor of their company.

Albie Davis (1/30/2007)

Oil on Canvas In the Yellow House 24" x 18"