Whenever you're given a task like this, take some time to think it over before you dive in.  Do a little research to make sure that you're choosing a topic that interests you.  Some students prefer the familiar, and others go for something more obscure.  

We've chosen to compare and contrast the work of two friends in this WebQuest -- Vincent Van Gogh (1853 - 1890) and Paul Gauguin (1848 - 1903).  Both are famous artists, which means there is plenty of information on the Internet about them.  They were friends, so we know that we've covered the requirement that the two artists be ALIVE AT THE SAME TIME.  Notice that the assignment specifies that we must focus on the WORK of two artists -- not the artists themselves. We need to compare AND contrast their work.  Keep all of this in mind as you do your research.  Also, it helps to know how your professor will evaluate your work.  Carefully read how your work will be evaluated before you continue on.

Before you start your research, take a look at this interactive site about the friendship between Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin.  Just click on the picture below.