Vincent Van Gogh is among the most studied and debated painters in the history of art. His work and life continue to stir controversy. The subject of a stream of exhibitions and reproductions in calendars and on coffee mugs, his painting is also wildly popular.
On the occasion of the National Gallery’s upcoming exhibition 'Vincent Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers', it is worth asking how museums like the National Gallery are framing the artist’s relevance anew. We will consider Van Gogh’s art in the context of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, as well as explore how it has been presented to the public and ask what future directions scholarship and curatorial practice might take.
Looking in depth at the exhibition strategies at the National Gallery and related published materials, we will keep one question central: why care about Van Gogh today? This day school will provide a flexible and inclusive opportunity to engage with pressing debates in the history of art and museum cultures.
Please note: this lecture will close to enrolments at 23:59 BST on 18 September 2024.