The first time I learned about the Van Gogh Exhibit was on an episode of the Netflix show – Emily in Paris. At the time, I thought it was just a special exhibit that was only held in Paris. So I made a mental note to check it out if I ever make it back to Paris.
I was a bit surprised and excited when I found out the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit was coming to Chicago! Not just because it was in Emily in Paris but I do admire post impressionist art, especially from Vincent van Gogh. Plus this is a the U.S. premiere of the Van Gogh exhibition!
Last week I had the pleasure of attending the media event for the Immersive Van Gogh Chicago Exhibit. I could say I knew what to expect from what I saw in Emily in Paris or in pictures but it was a totally different experience seeing it in person.
The Van Gogh Chicago experience is located at the brand new Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago in Old Town’s landmark Germania Club building. The Van Gogh experience is timed entry (about an hour apart, which is plenty of time to see the show.
My review of the Van Gogh Chicago Exhibit
I loved it!! Even if you do not know a lot about Vincent Van Gogh or all his works of art, I think you will still enjoy the show. To put it simply, it’s a light show of some of Van Gogh’s famous art with music. The show is about 37 minutes long until it starts repeating the songs. You may wonder what’s so special about a light show? Well, like the name of show says, it’s immersive. You are part of the art as the light moves, you see the art move while you are standing in it.
The space for the show is set in three large rooms on one floor and a balcony on the second floor so you can experience the show from a higher a bigger perspective.
In my opinion, I think this is a perfect date night experience. I attended with Charlie and we both enjoyed it and want to go back again. We even recreated the scene form Emily in Paris!
My Instagram followers asked if it’s safe to go and yes, it is “safe to Gogh” with social distancing circles guiding you through the exhibit and comprehensive safety protocols in place. Face masks are required.
There is even a cafe (Grab n’ Gogh) so you can grab a bite before you leave. They have stroopwafels, Van Gogh-inspired macarons, cookies and more! And of course, there is a gift shop for you to grab some souvenirs if you like.
The Immersive Van Gogh Experience is in Chicago from Februay 11 – September 6….so I think I will definitely be back before it leaves town. You can buy your tickets here.
How to get the the Van Gogh Chicago Experience
There is metered street parking available, which can be easy or hard to find, depending in the time of day.
If you plan to drive to the experience, the James house valet parking is just a few steps from the entrance and available for paid parking via Spot Hero. If you are planning to arrive by public transportation, the closest L stations from the CTAare Sedgwick (Brown Line) and Clark/Division (Red Line). Both require an approximate 10 min. walk to the venue. Additionally, the closest CTA bus stop is North Avenue & Clark Terminal, which can be accessed from the 72 bus (eastbound/westbound).
I can’t wait to go check this out. Even my 11-year-old son is a Van Gogh fan, so this will be a great family outing for us!
Can you tell me if they exhibit has a lot of movement in the exhibit? Patterns or paintings moving on the floor and walls? I get severely motion sick and I am wondering if I will be able to tolerate the exhibit.
Thank you for replying
There is movement. For some parts, it is fairly slow so you wouldn’t notice it as much but for other parts, it does go fast. I hope that helps. You can also stand in the balcony area where it’s further away from walls and floors…that might help.