Study Finds Science in Van Gogh's Starry Night

A recent study by researchers from China and France reveals that Vincent van Gogh's iconic painting 'The Starry Night' may reflect a deep understanding of atmospheric turbulence. Analyzing the painting's brushstrokes and their spatial scales, scientists found that the artwork aligns with Kolmogorov's theory of turbulence, which describes energy transfer in chaotic fluid movements. The swirling night sky, often interpreted as a manifestation of van Gogh's mental state, also captures the complex dynamics of air movement, showcasing 'hidden turbulence' that is not visible to the naked eye. The research highlights van Gogh's intuitive grasp of natural phenomena despite his struggles with mental health, offering a new perspective on the painting's significance. Lead author Yongxiang Huang emphasized that the painting's accuracy could stem from either van Gogh's observations of cloud movement or an inherent ability to depict dynamic natural processes. This study underscores the intersection of art and science, adding a layer of complexity to the interpretation of van Gogh's masterpiece.