Van Gogh in Borinage: an artist is born!

The major exhibit in Mons 2015 (nominee for European Capital of Culture) on V. Van Gogh, in the BAM in Mons, from February to May 2015

This exhibit comprises between 50 and 60 paintings by Van Gogh tracing his entire career, and are accompanied by the letters he wrote in Wasmes and Cuesmes.

In 1879 Van Gogh arrived in Mons as an evangelist. He left two years later, convinced that his destiny was tied to the world of drawing and painting. Borinage can therefore rightly be considered the birthplace of his artistic vocation.

His taste for subjects related to everyday activities and details of the life of peasants and factory workers has its roots here, and reminiscences of Borinage may be also seen in his later work.

2 projects run parallel in the exhibit

- Scientific research

Detailed documentaries on the social and economic life at the end of the 19th century, photos, newspaper articles on Van Gogh’s stay in Mons are on display.

The research will delve into the knowledge and fame that Van Gogh acquired in Belgium and especially in Mons after his death.

- Houses

Van Gogh lived in Mons and Borinage partly in a house in Wasmes and subsequently in Cuesmes.

The latter is relatively well known but the Wasmes house is unfortunately in an appalling state. Options are being considered for its definitive restoration.

These are two essential steps of Van Gogh’s life in Belgium.

Don’t miss it!

Location

• BAM - FINE ARTS MONS (MONS)

Location

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