This immersive Van Gogh experience in Bristol delivers an ‘edutainment’ experience which has been around the world attracting celebs such as Samuel L Jackson and was voted by readers of USA Today as one of their top 10 experiences of 2021. Alongside the clever digi tech are standalone galleries that depict Vincent Van Gogh’s life, influences and personal story and struggles, which is what I found the most interesting and engaging.
The Virtual Reality interactive feature, costing an extra £5, guides you on a 10-minute journey through “a day in the life of the artist” and the inspiration behind eight of Van Gogh’s most iconic works, including Vincent’s Bedroom In Arles and Starry Night Over The Rhône. The main highlight of the experience, though, was the 360° immersive room which – through cutting-edge technology – pumps stunning imagery and beautiful music into the space while you’re comfortably plonked in a deckchair.
Whatever your relationship with art, this experience is worth the entrance fee. The tech/cultural mashup is here to stay, so embrace this brave new world. Watch out for the immersive/VR Sermon On The Mount teachings coming to a gallery near you very soon…
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is at the Propyard in Bristol until February 2023. Tickets: £13-£27.50. Info: vangoghexpo.com/bristol
words ANTONIA LEVAY