The famous artist known for cutting off part of his own ear is Vincent van Gogh. This act occurred during a tumultuous period in his life, particularly amid his struggles with mental health and his tumultuous relationship with fellow artist Paul Gauguin. Van Gogh's emotional distress is reflected in his art, characterized by bold colors and expressive brushwork. His struggle with mental illness and subsequent self-mutilation added a tragic dimension to his legacy. Despite his challenges, van Gogh produced over 2,000 artworks, making him one of the most influential figures in post-impressionism.