Vincent Willem van Gogh ( Dutch : faÅ Ë xÉ '' x , or English : Ë vÃ n Ë É É ' x , 30 March 1853 -- 29 July 1890 ) was a Dutch post-Impressionist painter . His work had a great influence on 20th century art because of its striking colors and emotional power . Vincent Willem van Gogh ( , ; ; 30 March 1853 - 29 July 1890 ) was a Dutch post-Impressionist painter whose work had a far-reaching influence on 20th century art for its vivid colors and emotional impact .