Van Gogh immersive experience

A number of real-life and virtual reality exhibits of Vincent van Gogh's paintings have been staged around the world since the 2000s.

Images or videos of the artist's works are projected onto walls, ceilings, and floors, sometimes accompanied by animations, narrations, music, or fragrances.

[3][5] Numerous van Gogh events are being held in mid- to large-size U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus, Houston, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Petersburg, Philadelphia and Charlotte.

Some exhibits also use sensory tools like aromas of cedar, cypress, lemon, or nutmeg to help visitors feel more immersed with the works.

The show tells van Gogh's story with a loose stream of consciousness, using large images and animations to demonstrate what "flashed before his eyes" before the artist died.

[10] The pandemic has been suggested as another reason for the high frequency and popularity of immersive shows in 2021–22, given that many visitors may have been kept inside during COVID-19 lockdowns.

The exhibits also do not generally show the artist's brushstrokes (a key element of his artistry), especially as the originals have a depth that is imperceptible from a projector image.

He noted that the exhibits may displease purists as some simulations animate the paintings, taking creative licenses beyond what van Gogh intended for his art.