Vincent van Gogh's artistic pursuits were profoundly shaped by the hardships of his childhood. Growing up in a strict religious family, he experienced emotional turmoil and loneliness, often reflected in his later artwork. This backdrop of struggle informed his exploration of color and emotion in painting, as seen in works like "Starry Night." The mental health issues he faced throughout his life contributed to the depth and intensity of his artistic expression. Van Gogh's vulnerability and tumultuous experiences fueled a unique creative vision, allowing him to capture the complexities of human emotion and experience, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on the art world.