Answer the following question in 3-4 complete sentences. Name the piece above and its painter. How has the artist used symbolic expression in this painting? Include 3 examples/descriptions.

Answer:

The painting is Vincent van Gogh’s *The Starry Night*. The towering cypress tree may symbolize death or a connection between earth and heaven, while the swirling sky expresses intense emotion and movement. The brilliant stars and moon suggest spiritual hope or divine presence, and the quiet village below contrasts with the turbulent sky to show the difference between peaceful daily life and the artist’s inner feelings.