Van Gogh Alive

Last November 8, 2023, I had the opportunity to visit Van Gogh Alive at BGC Arts Center in Taguig. It's an exhibit of Van Gogh's masterpieces through multi-sensory storytelling. 

The exhibit opened on October 20, 2023 and will run for a limited time only. I think until December. It has been shown in other parts of the world and now it's here in the Philippines for the second time. The last time I wasn't able to catch it. So now I didn't waste any chance to visit it. 

Basically, Van Gogh Alive is showcasing the masterpieces of Vincent Van Gogh and learning about his life. It has 5 areas. The first one is the Introduction Hall. 

This is where you can learn or familiarize yourself about the life of Vincent Van Gogh. This is where some of his remarkable works are displayed with the story behind each of them. You can learn about his life and the struggles that he faced. About how he started painting. You can also find out his inspirations behind his beautiful creations. 

But before entering the gallery, there is a briefing about the do's and don'ts inside the venue. So you might want to come a  little early before your scheduled time. The operating schedule is from Tuesday to Sunday. From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM during weekdays and until 10:00 PM on weekends. I went there during weekday and my chosen time was 12:00 to 2:00 PM which worked great for me. You are only allotted two hours to explore the gallery. I happened to catch the early bird promo that's why I scored a ticket at a bit lower price than the original. If you are planning to visit the exhibit you can go to BGC Arts Center's website for the ticket price and for other info. Or you can visit their Facebook page. Just click here.  

Right after the Introduction Hall is the main gallery. This is where the main show happens. This is where you can watch the multimedia presentation of Vincent Van Gogh's works. It's like seeing them in real life cause they are shown on massive screens. You will be amazed by how he did such great masterpieces through a single brush stroke but when combined is really such a wonderful art. Since you are surrounded by giant screens, you can vividly see every detail of his artwork. 

I was really mesmerized while I was watching. I'm such a fan of such talent. I'm a frustrated painter that's why I really admire those artists that could paint or draw so well. 

We were only few attendees there that time. I could have a DIY photo shoot since it's not crowded. 😂 But I didn't. Cause when I went there my goal is to just watch and learn about the life and works of Van Gogh. I restricted myself from taking too many photos. Cause if I focused on taking great photos, I wouldn't be able to enjoy the show. I would end up watching the videos I took that I forgot what it really felt like being in the exhibit. 

Then there is an art studio where you can draw Van Gogh's The Starry Night or his bedroom. There is a tutorial showing on the screens. You can live your "artist life" even for just a short while. It would complete the whole Van Gogh Alive experience. I wasn't able to experience it cause that time there was no one doing it. I wanted to, but I shied away. 

Upon leaving the main gallery you will be headed to the Sunflower Mirror Room where you can find lots of roses. Just kidding. Of course, you can find sunflowers. There are mirrors where you can do some selfie. The room is decorated with a sunflowers. It's like when you enter it there is a man waiting for you on the other side of the room kneeling on his one knee and going to ask you to marry him. 😂 I mean, it's a total feel. I didn't feel it though while I was there cause I was busy taking photos and videos. I just realized it when I was already at home watching the videos that I took. 

The last area is Van Gogh's room. It's a setup of his bedroom in Arles. 

Then at the exit you can find Van Gogh's merch. There are mugs, tote bags and cookies that you can buy. Forgive me, I forgot the other item. 😒 But I think it is shirt.

Overall, Van Gogh Alive is a great experience. His works are proof that you can create something beautiful out of the ugly parts of your life. You just need to find the perfect avenue where you can pour out all your emotions. And in case of Vincent Van Gogh, it is through painting.