Vincent van Gogh in Isleworth

Vincent moved to Isleworth in June 1876 to work as an assistant teacher after the school that employed him relocated there from Ramsgate. He had previously earned more money working for art dealers, but was determined to pursue a career in education or the clergy. In Isleworth, Vincent lived more modestly than before. Though nostalgic for his past lifestyle, he felt strongly that he belonged in a teaching or missionary role.

vincent van gogh isleworth

Stokes's boys school in Isleworth

While working at Stokes's boys school in Isleworth, Vincent met Thomas Slade-Jones, who ran a nearby boarding school called Holme Court. Jones also worked as a minister. He offered Vincent a job teaching at his school, which was just down the road from Stokes's school.

At Holme Court, Vincent began working as a teacher. He later also taught Sunday school and preached at Jones's church in Turnham Green. This allowed Vincent to pursue his goal of being involved in religious work, something he was very ambitious about doing.

Van Gogh locations in Isleworth

During his time in Isleworth, Vincent van Gogh frequented several locations across the area. He enjoyed taking walks through the scenic Syon Park. For work, he was employed as an assistant teacher at a boarding school run by Mr. Stokes. He also taught at the nearby Holme Court school, which was operated by Thomas Slade-Jones. Additionally, Vincent worked at the church in Turnham Green, where he taught Sunday school and delivered his first sermon. On Monday evenings, he would attend the Methodist church in Richmond. The map shows the geographic proximity of the key places Vincent spent his time while living and working in Isleworth.

Van Gogh letter Isleworth

The Isleworth Letter

Vincent van Gogh
To: Theo van Gogh
Date: Isleworth, between about July and November 1876

A famous item in the Van Gogh collection is this letter he wrote to his brother whilst living in Isleworth. The original translated text can be viewed here.

Here is a passage is wrote referencing the fact that he was having to live a more modest life in Isleworth:

“There may well come a time when I look back with a certain nostalgia on the ‘excesses of Egypt’ connected with other situations, namely earning more money and being in many respects of more consequence in the world – this I foresee.”

Want to see where Van Gogh's journey began?

Private Vincent Van Gogh Tour in Nuenen from Amsterdam
Delve deeper into Van Gogh's world on a tour to Brabant, the region that inspired his groundbreaking art. Walk in the footsteps of the passionate painter in Nuenen, where he revolutionised portraiture by capturing raw human beauty. Marvel at 12 additional masterpieces at the Noordbrabants Museum or travel to Zundert, Van Gogh's birthplace. Immerse yourself in the Dutch landscapes that shaped this genius's iconic vision.

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More on Isleworth's connection to art

Vincent van Gogh