The Vincent van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, provides a retrospective collection of his art and influences in a well-thought out, modern design. There are the major works of Van Gogh on hand, like “Sunflowers,” self-portraits, and his later paintings of intense color and vibrancy. Artworks by his influences are on display as well: colorful and tropical paintings by his friend and fellow post-Impressionist Paul Gaugin, Japanese woodblock art, and compassionate paintings of everyday, working people.
Van Gogh often is associated with Impressionism, and he was skilled in the style and plein-aire environment they used in 19th century France. Yet, he went beyond even the best of them in his bold strokes of color and vibrancy. Some say his paintings capture the currents and trembling of invisible air itself. You may find the fantastic pops, falls, and strokes of paint like a fireworks display on the 4th of July; I couldn’t agree more.
The museum is located in the main part of the city and easily reached. When you go, you need to pre-select a day and time for your visit on-line. It is a fine collection of letters and paintings by one of the world’s greatest artists.