Van Gogh Alive is not an exhibit of original pieces by Van Gogh, but instead is a reflection of the artist’s life  projected onto screens, columns, walls and even the floor, set to a soundtrack of classical music.

The entry hall to the exhibit contains information about Van Gogh and his life, but while you are reading about him, you can hear the music of the actual exhibit coming from the next room, and we could not wait to go in.   We had our kids with us and they were so curious to know what was behind the curtain!  You enter a room that is completely dark apart from a continuous stream of Van Gogh’s paintings, sketches, letters and photos, set to mood appropriate music, including Schubert, Liszt and Vivaldi.

The exhibit takes place in one large area, but since the images are being projected all over, at first, we strolled different areas of the room, but after walking around, we found a bench in a cozy corner and just took in the beautiful images and music.  It is true that it was an emotional exhibit, but somehow it was also relaxing.  A fellow attendee said they needed lounge chairs in the room to lay down and take it all in.  Great idea!

As I mentioned above, we took the kids and it clearly had an impact on them more than traditional museums.  The experience for them was very interactive.  The colors and sounds had them totally captivated.  When we left, they immediately wanted to go home and to learn  more about the life of Van Gogh.

This exhibit covers the years from 1880 to 1890 and over 3,000 pieces including works such as Starry Night, Sunflowers and many self portraits.

The Van Gogh exhibit runs from December 6, 2013 – March 9, 2014 at the Milano Fabbrica del Vapore.   More info below. While you are there, you can also take advantage of the ice skating rink set up in the square right in front of the museum from December 14, 2013 – February 23, 2014.  See the website:  www.icealive.it

Van Gogh Alive: Milano Fabbrica del Vapore, Via Procaccini 4 – 20154

Open every day with the following hours: From 10AM – 8PM Thursday and Saturday from 10AM – 11PM

Full ticket price:  12 Euro *Various reduced ticket prices available  for seniors, children and groups

www.vangoghalive.it

www.vangogh-alive.com