Calabrisella Mia

The Van Gogh Alive Exhibit is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. This spectacular exhibit, which has already had great success in cities such as Berlin, Dubai and Rome, showcases the works of Van Gogh in a new and innovative way.

You are instantly transported into the works of Van Gogh. You become fully immersed in his works giving you a chance to see them in a whole new way thanks to a new media platform known as Sensory 4. This technology uses multi-channel motion graphics, high quality surround sound and high definition projectors that bring Van Gogh’s artistry to life with an incredible level of detail. The moving pictures intertwined with a carefully selected musical score take you on a powerful journey through the life and career of Van Gogh.

Museo Multimediale Citta di Cosenza

The Multimedia Museum in the city of Cosenza is the perfect venue for this exhibit.  The museum, which opened earlier this year, is the first of its kind in the city. It is conveniently located in Piazza Bilotti which can be found in the city centre at the end of Corso Mazzini.

The Van Gogh Alive Experience

You don’t have to study Van Gogh or know much about him to see that his works of art were inspired and influenced by his environment, surroundings and mental state.

The exhibition takes you through Van Gogh’s journey, capturing perfectly the emotions and experiences that were so imperative to the works and periods of Van Gogh’s life.

The exhibition opens with a series of self-portraits that capture the various styles Van Gogh possessed as well as the varying emotional states he experienced throughout his career and life.

Nuenen and Antwerp (1883–86)

At age 27, Van Gogh turned to art and during these early years he created many sketches and still lifes of the people and landscapes of daily life in The Netherlands.

During this period, he used subdued earthy tones, which was very different than some of the more well-known vibrant pieces that appeared later on in Van Gogh’s career.

He then moved to Antwerp, began drinking heavily and was hospitalized. After his recovery he took a drawing class at an Art Academy, but his character and unconventional style led him to be expelled.

Paris (1886–88)

Van Gogh moved to Paris in March 1886 where he shared an apartment with his brother, Theo. With this move, we see a shift in his work. Perhaps it was the energy of the city that brought Van Gogh to use more colour in his works.

His paintings now included flowers, gardens and fruits. However, after a couple years, Van Gogh began to feel drained from the city life of Paris.

Arles (1888–89)

So, from Paris, Van Gogh made his way to Arles in February 1888.  Many would say this was the happiest time of his life, which can certainly be seen in the broad colours and vivd brushstrokes in his works. It was also his most productive period – having completed over 200 paintings.

It is during this time that Van Gogh created some of his most famous paintings.

His Sunflower Series, which I personally love because sunflowers are my favourite flower.

His Japanese inspired works showcasing his passion for Japanese art. This is something I personally didn’t know about Van Gogh before this exhibit.

Caffe Terrace at Night is definitely known by many. We had a replica of this painting in my family home.

And one of Van Gogh’s personal favourites, The Bedroom of Arles.

Later that year, Van Gogh suffered from a psychotic break in which he cut off his ear and delivered it to a prostitute. He was admitted to hospital once again and released before being readmitted after another two more episodes.  So, he left Arles and admitted himself into an asylum in Saint-Remy.

At this point, the screens throughout the museum begin to display the many letters Van Gogh wrote in the last 10 years of his life. It creates a deep and personal insight into his life, artistic journey and ever-changing mental state.

Saint-Rémy (May 1889 – May 1890)

He entered into the asylum in May 1889 and had two rooms, one of which was used as a studio. It was here that the swirls, which were an important feature in The Starry Night, became present in more and more of his works.

Auvers-Sur-Oise (May-July 1890)

In May 1890, Van Gogh left the asylum and headed to Auvers-Sur-Oise, a small town just north of Paris. Here he painted what some believed to be his last work, Tree Roots. However, many also believe this painting is unfinished.

This bright image illuminates the space with its blinding color and then…..

BANG!

On July 27, 1890, Van Gogh killed himself. A shot in the chest, but before that, he had begun writing a letter to his brother, which he never completed. After shooting himself, he managed to make his way back to his room, where he was later discovered and died in the arms of his brother.

We’ve now come full circle and are once again engulfed in self portraits of Van Gogh. This moment fills you with intense emotion and a greater appreciation for this artist.

This exhibit was without any doubt an unforgettable experience.

Ticket Prices and Times

Monday – Friday 10:00am – 8:00pm
Saturday -Sunday and Holidays 10:00 am – 11:00pm

Single Ticket: € 13,00
Children Ticket: € 9,00

Family 3 people:  2 adult + 1 children (6-12 years) € 30,00
Family 4 people:  2 adult + 2 children (6-12 years) € 39,00
Family 5 people:  2 adult + 3 children (6-12 years) € 47,00

Group 10 people: € 9,00 for person

Free entry child aged under 6
Free entry for disabled and one assistant

For more information, visit the official website.