A couple of weeks ago, I had the amazing opportunity to visit the National Gallery and see Van Gogh’s original work up close. I started my day with an early train ride from Ipswich to Liverpool Street and made my way to Trafalgar Square. Before heading into the gallery, I took advantage of the lively atmosphere to sneak in some street photography. It was a bright morning, and everyone was enjoying themselves—people were snapping selfies, children were playing, and buskers were out performing.
Finally, it was time to step inside the gallery. Seeing Van Gogh’s actual paintings was nothing short of incredible. It was fascinating to witness how he poured his intense emotions onto the canvas and into each line he drew throughout various moments of his life. As I listened to the audio guide, which shared some of his quotes from letters describing his artwork and feelings, I felt a profound connection to him. It really brought his work to life in a way I hadn’t expected!
Though I’ve always admired Van Gogh’s style and knew some of his story, I’d never truly immersed myself in his work the way I did that day. I was familiar with his most famous paintings, yet what struck me most were his drawings. The expressive quality of his lines showed a depth that was captivating. Observing the way he used ink to express his inner world made me see his art – and perhaps even my own photographs with new eyes.
When I came out of the gallery, it was raining over Trafalgar Square. I could hear people voicing their discontent over the wet day. Yet, instead of seeing it as miserable, I felt inspired to look beyond the raindrops and see the quiet beauty of the city and it’s reflections.
In that moment, Van Gogh’s words came to mind: “There is nothing more truly artistic than to love people,” which he once wrote to his brother Theo. I realised the rain was revealing people’s special moments—their love, devotion, and those small interactions—all set against the backdrop of a rainy city. It felt like an art form in itself!
Rain might seem dreary, but Van Gogh often saw nature’s softer side in moments like these. He captured the beauty of overcast days in his painting Landscape under a Stormy Sky, and though he faced his own storms, he found beauty in the melancholy.
Inspired by this, I set out to capture that same spirit—the poetry of people seeking shelter, of reflections in puddles, and of moments made softer by rain. Through these images, I hope to reflect Van Gogh’s own search for beauty amidst life’s storms.
I hope you enjoy my photographs and find the same connection and positivity that I experienced on this rainy day.
Each image reminds us that even in the greyest weather, there’s beauty to be found.
My goal is to inspire you to see the magic in everyday moments and embrace the unique charm that rainy days can bring.
Well done, I saw reflections of a new beginning, a second chance to love life and people around them. The rain washing everything clean again.
Thank you Nancy, great to see that you could find the positive and the love on this rainy day too! Love the perspective of new beginnings 🙂