Novel about artist whose life was made difficult on purpose to help him produce great art

[fackell]

Fiction about an artist whose life was made horrible by people in his life so as to spur him to produce great works of art (i.e. orchestrating life events that give him grief & suffering). I would say it is a satire on the “suffering artist” & “tormented genius” stereotypes, written in grotesque / macabre style. I remember there were plenty of vivid graphic descriptions. If I am not wrong this artist was a painter.

I read this book almost 10 years ago so details are quite hazy. It haunts me that I cannot find the book. Any ideas would be much appreciated!