Wong's expressively lyrical works were inspired by both traditional Chinese painting and Western art. He was especially influenced by Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890), not only in terms of his painting style and choice of motifs, but also in some aspects of his life. Both artists were self-taught, and both faced mental health issues. Wong saw his own life reflected in that of Van Gogh, and once said: "I see myself in him. The impossibility of belonging in this world."
Published to accompany an exhibition at the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, Matthew Wong-Vincent van Gogh explores the artistic and personal connection between the two artists, bringing around forty-five paintings and drawings by Wong into dialogue with a group of Van Gogh masterpieces. Kenny Schachter, who knew Wong, contributes a personal introduction, which is followed by essays exploring the artists' biographical and artistic kinship.