How did van Gogh create texture in his paintings?

• A. He used thick paint to show obvious brushstrokes.
• B. He used thin glazes.
• C. He scratched the surface.
• D. He used digital textures.

Answer: (A)

Texture in van Gogh’s paintings comes mainly from impasto—the thick application of oil paint that stands up from the canvas. By loading paint onto the brush or applying it with a palette knife in bold, directional strokes, he built up raised ridges and a highly visible surface. This not only creates a tactile, almost three-dimensional quality but also conveys energy and movement through the gesture of the brushwork. Thin glazes would produce a smoother, flatter surface, which doesn’t capture that bold, textured impact. Scratching the surface isn’t the defining method he’s famous for, and digital textures aren’t relevant to his traditional oil technique.