#Japan #Tokyo #Vincent van Gogh #Barbara Stock #Tuki to Fumisha

The Story Behind van Gogh's 'Dried Sunflowers'

A new picture book titled "Van Gogh and the Sunflowers" was recently released by Tsuki to Fumisha, a one-person publishing company based in Tsukiji, Tokyo. This captivating book, which focuses on Vincent van Gogh's unique perspective, will be available starting April 10, 2025.

Authored by the renowned Dutch comic artist Barbara Stock, the book has received endorsement from the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, where it was created in 2019. It gained significant popularity in the Netherlands, and an English version is also available, while the Japanese edition has been translated by Natsumi Kawano, a local translator residing in the Netherlands. Barbara Stock is known for her bestselling graphic novel "Vincent", which won accolades in the Netherlands, and this marks her first foray into children’s literature.

In "Van Gogh and the Sunflowers," readers have the chance to accompany van Gogh on a stroll as he seeks inspiration for his paintings. The narrative delves into how he is drawn to the beauty in the unique features of people rather than conventional ideals of beauty, as well as his appreciation for overlooked elements like dusty shoes and tree roots. This exploration is infused with the child-like purity that characterizes van Gogh’s artistry and vision.

The story culminates in a sunflower field where van Gogh picks up wilted flowers from the ground, leading to the creation of his iconic "Sunflowers" painting. While seven versions of this masterpiece exist, close examination reveals that many of the sunflowers in the vase appear wilted, with fallen petals that emphasize their transient beauty. Van Gogh found a deep allure in these dying flowers, an insight that reflects his unique aesthetic sensibility.

A poignant phrase from the book resonates with a vital message: "If everyone were perfect, the world would be a dull place." This sentiment is skillfully conveyed throughout the narrative, encouraging young readers to celebrate their individuality. It reassures them that it’s okay to love what others may not find beautiful and highlights the charm in imperfection, whether it be in people or nature.

Given the range of major van Gogh exhibitions set for 2025, including "Van Gogh Impact - The Passion of Creation" at the Pola Museum from May 31 to November 30, the "Van Gogh Exhibition - The Dream of a Painter Connected by Family" at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum from September 12 to December 21, and the "Great Van Gogh Exhibition - Night Café Terrace" at the Kobe City Museum from September 20 through February 1 of the following year, interest in van Gogh is set to surge. In this context, "Van Gogh and the Sunflowers" is a must-have for readers of all ages, and can be appreciated in bookstores, cafes, art galleries, and libraries.

About the Author: Barbara Stock

Born in 1970 in the Netherlands, Barbara Stock honed her skills as a journalist before venturing into the world of comics and illustration. She has been recognized with the Stripschapprijs, an award for outstanding Dutch comic artists, in 2009. Her graphic novel "Vincent", which depicts van Gogh's final years, has been translated into over 20 languages and is an international bestseller. "Van Gogh and the Sunflowers" (original title: "Vincent en de zonnebloemen") is her inaugural children's book.

About the Translator: Natsumi Kawano

Natsumi Kawano, a graduate of Tokyo University of Foreign Studies and Kyoto University, studied at Leiden University in the Netherlands twice during her academic career. She currently resides in the Netherlands, balancing her work as a freelance Japanese teacher with her efforts to introduce Dutch graphic novels to Japanese audiences. Her translated works include "Vincent" (translated as "Van Gogh Last Three Years") and “Little Betty and the Non-flying Swan.”

Book Summary

Title: Van Gogh and the Sunflowers
Author: Barbara Stock
Translator: Natsumi Kawano
Cover Design: Midori Ki
Price: ¥2200 (including tax)
Dimensions: 19.4 cm tall x 17 cm wide x 0.8 cm thick
Pages: 32
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Publisher: Tsuki to Fumisha
Find more information about this book

About Tsuki to Fumisha

Founded by Asuka Fujikawa in May 2023, Tsuki to Fumisha has quickly made its name in the world of publishing. Asuka, after a successful tenure as an editor at Nikkei BP, has spearheaded this venture with a passion for bringing diverse narratives to life. With an intriguing catalog that includes illustrated short stories and interview collections, this small publisher is dedicated to a thoughtful approach in the books it produces.