The Van Gogh Museum
Whether you’re an avid art historian or just a casual observer, you will have heard of Vincent Willem van Gogh. His Sunflowers are iconic and you probably know he cut a chunk off his own ear, but only in Amsterdam can you visit the Van Gogh Museum and find out more about this renowned artist!
Vincent van Gogh had a very dramatic life punctuated by clear bouts of madness and depression which led to alcohol dependence, psychotic episodes, self-mutilation and ultimately suicide. In spite of – or perhaps because of – his agitated mental state, Van Gogh was one of the most prolific artists of the 19th century and produced extraordinary paintings that are world famous today. The Van Gogh Museum offers a vivid insight into the artist’s work and life through permanent and special exhibitions, drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually.
The Van Gogh Museum collection
Home to the world's largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works, the museum also chronicles his life, making it a unique Amsterdam experience. The museum's collection is divided into three sections: the Van Gogh collection, work from other artists and the collection concerning the Van Gogh Museum’s history. The Van Gogh Museum collection boasts more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings and 700 letters, which originally belonged to Vincent's younger brother, Theo. Vincent had a very close relationship with Theo and his letters give an excellent insight into the painter and his life.
Highlights of the Van Gogh Museum
With several of Van Gogh’s famous works on display at the museum, it’s difficult to know where to start. Highlights of the collection include The Potato Eaters, Bedroom in Arles, Blossoming Almond Tree and of course Still Life: Vase with Twelve Sunflowers. As the museum gives such an excellent account of the artist’s life, visitors also glean important information into the background of the paintings. For instance, Bedroom in Arles was a depiction of Van Gogh’s bedroom in his Yellow House and he details his artistic intentions in a letter to Theo.
Playful art appreciation
The Van Gogh Museum offers a wealth of activities for kids and the young at heart. From children’s workshops where they can create their own works of art to specially-tailored children’s audio tours, youngsters are encouraged to discover Vincent van Gogh's art in a fun way. And grown-ups aren’t forgotten either. The Van Gogh Museum is a great place to meet for early drinks on a Friday night. Lounge chairs, live music, DJs and a bar give the museum’s central hall a relaxed vibe.
Worldwide available
Van Gogh loved to experiment with new techniques, and would have wanted to exhibit his work to as many people as possible. This is why the Van Gogh Museum does not only tell his stories in the museum itself, for example all 902 letters from and to Van Gogh have been published on www.vangoghletters.org and you can follow his working methods on www.vangoghsstudiopractice.com.
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For more information and tickets www.vangoghmuseum.com
Follow Vincent van Gogh’s development and gain an insight into his life at the Van Gogh Museum – a unique opportunity only possible in Amsterdam!
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