Vincent van Gogh, a post-Impressionist painter, is celebrated for his profound influence on 20th-century art. His vivid color palette and emotive brushwork evoke intense emotional responses, offering a window into his tormented psyche. "Sunflowers," a series painted in 1888, is emblematic of Van Gogh's exploration of the life cycle of nature and showcases his innovative use of yellow to convey both brightness and decay. "The Starry Night" (1889), with its turbulent, swirling skies over Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, illustrates his ability to infuse landscapes with emotion, reflecting on humanity's place in the universe. The lesser-known "Skull of a Skeleton with Burning Cigarette" (1885-86), painted during his early years at the Antwerp Academy, exhibits a macabre yet satirical side of Van Gogh, hinting at his contemplation of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. These works underline Van Gogh's legacy as an artist who profoundly shaped the path of modern painting with his bold technique and deeply human themes.