Review: Van Gogh Alive, London
In the quiet setting of Kensington Gardens, a new immersive experience has popped up to give insight into the changing moods and styles of one of the worlds most recognised artists, Vincent Van Gogh.
Van Gogh Alive is an innovative, multi-sensory experience that has toured the globe and promises its visitors the ability to feel ‘inside the paintings’ while appreciating the emotional changes of the artist throughout his lifetime.
Once you enter the event, you are greeted by a timeline of pictures showcasing the varying styles of Van Gogh’s along with his influences and the effect of mental health on his canvas.
I’m not going to give too much away (that would be spoiling things for others), but the immersive experience is a mix of cleverly choreographed images with elements that come to life alongside an emotional soundtrack in cinema-quality surround sound. It’s an experience that will delight all ages, from youngsters playing among the light to the most learned of art buffs who can see the brush strokes of the master himself.
What amazed me was how the various locations had such an impact on his work. Van Gogh Alive uses his journey through the Netherlands, Arles, Saint-Remy and Auvers-sur-Oise along with over 3,000 images to visually document his life. Expect the walls, ceilings and even floors to come alive with the bold colours, characters and scenery that inspired him along with his downward spiral and his battle with his mental health.
Do you have to be an art lover? The simple answer to this one is no. It has the potential to engage with visitors on many levels – from art lovers, through to those just looking to be entertained for an hour or two. For that full sensory experience, be sure to top up the taste buds at the onsite dining experience.
LONDON
Kensington Gardens
Jun 4 – Sep 26
BIRMINGHAM
Birmingham Hippodrome
May 25 – Jul 11
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