Van Gogh 360: An Artistic Journey Unveiled in Bangalore

-LIZ BENNY

In a captivating offering for art connoisseurs, the gates to Van Gogh 360 have swung open in Bangalore, allowing enthusiasts to step into the imaginative world of one of the most celebrated post-Impressionist painters. Offering an exclusive preview into the much-anticipated exhibit, here’s an exploration of what lies within.

In a captivating offering for art connoisseurs, the gates to Van Gogh 360 have swung open in Bangalore, allowing enthusiasts to step into the imaginative world of one of the most celebrated post-Impressionist painters. Offering an exclusive preview into the much-anticipated exhibit, here’s an exploration of what lies within.

The landscape of art appreciation has undergone a transformative shift over recent years. It has evolved from a studious and contemplative engagement into a mesmerizing adventure that envelops individuals in a tapestry of vibrant brushstrokes, audacious colors, and harmonious music. Across continents, galleries and interactive museums have harnessed the power of high-definition projectors to illuminate revered artworks. These colors and forms gracefully traverse walls, pirouette across floors, and caress the senses of viewers.

Embracing this wave of transformation in India is the enchanting Van Gogh 360—an immersive experience that delves into the spirited and daring creations of an iconic Dutch artist whose name has not only inspired films and music but has also graced merchandise worldwide. By employing a myriad of projections and formidable computer servers, this exhibit offers a promise of leaving attendees captivated. Following its triumphant showcase in Mumbai and New Delhi, this showcase has now unfolded within the premises of Bhartiya Mall in Bangalore, bathing it in a kaleidoscope of vivid hues. Lifestyle Asia India has been granted an exclusive glimpse into this artistic spectacle.

“I have poured my heart and soul into my work, losing myself in the process,” Van Gogh famously once mused. These words are a reflection of his artistic ethos, characterized by unfiltered emotion, mental turbulence, and an unmistakable ardor for his craft. Experts often point to the liberal application of paint upon canvas using palette knives and brushes—an artistic technique known as impasto. This technique not only imparts texture to his creations but also infuses them with a spontaneous dynamism that sets them apart from the ordinary. This essence is presented right from the outset, as attendees become acquainted with these intricacies and more in an educational space. Here, expansive displays illuminate the most pivotal facets of his tumultuous yet creatively ignited existence. This journey includes an exploration of his deeply affectionate bond with his brother, his profound connection with nature, and his grappling with mental afflictions that drove him to an extreme act of self-mutilation. These insights, in turn, fuel the creation of over 2,000 artworks, a remarkable 300 of which are featured in this exhibition.

Taking a seat amidst a multitude of bean bags, I witnessed a vibrant procession of sunflowers (Sunflowers, 1888-1889) brush past, their petals vividly adorned with a bold shade of yellow. Moving closer to the walls, I pondered the melancholy of an elderly man seated in a chair (At Eternity’s Gate, 1890), seeking to glean the artist’s contemplation on the inevitability of mortality. A whirlwind of colors and textures abruptly diverted my thoughts, transmuting into the inviting ambiance of a café scene (Café Terrace at Night, 1888), only to swiftly transform once again, this time into an intimate bedroom (Bedroom in Arles, 1888). Over the ensuing moments, factories emerged and disintegrated around me (Quai de Clichy, 1887), while multiple depictions of a skeleton (Skull of a Skeleton with Burning Cigarette, 1885) served as poignant reminders of the artist’s dalliance with tragic motifs.

However, it wasn’t the irrefutable allure of the luminous yet introspective Starry Night (1889) that commanded my attention. Rather, it was the gritty portrayal of rustic life (The Potato Eaters, 1885) that stirred my fascination. The larger-than-life canvases permitted a meticulous inspection of each sinew on the laborers’ hands as they partook in a meal after a grueling day’s labor. This experience found an auditory companion in a classical score composed by a Canadian maestro—a musical journey that swelled and waned in harmony with the prevailing mood of the exhibits.

Distinct from the meticulous detailing typically found in most museum displays, this exhibition embraces a narrative approach that exudes a magnetic pull, particularly for those new to the realm of art or those disillusioned by its perceived exclusivity. Beyond igniting a craving for art and providing ardent Gogh enthusiasts with an unprecedented opportunity to interact with his masterpieces, this space beckons to children and individuals in pursuit of an entertaining weekend escapade. Additionally, the array of captivating visuals is a haven for those seeking Instagram-worthy snapshots. Opting for a weekday visit is sage advice for those seeking to evade the bustling crowds.

Tickets are priced at INR 1099 for Monday through Friday and INR 1499 for Saturday and Sunday. Secure your entry passes here.

Location: Bhartiya Mall Of Bengaluru, Bhartiya City ∎

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