Vincent van Gogh’s profound statement, “What I’m most passionate about…is the portrait, the modern portrait,” encapsulates the essence of a remarkable exhibition focusing on his deep connection with a family in Arles. Between 1888 and 1889, during his time in the South of France, Van Gogh found artistic inspiration and perhaps a sense of familial warmth in the Roulin family – the postman Joseph Roulin, his wife Augustine, and their children Armand, Camille, and Marcelle. This exhibition brings to light Van Gogh’s tender bond with them and his innovative portraits, revealing the heart of friendship that fueled his creative spirit. It’s a journey into art that reflects the universal theme of “Van For Family,” not in the literal sense of transportation, but as a vessel of care, connection, and emotional resonance.
This unique exhibition showcases 23 of Van Gogh’s pieces, featuring the Museum of Fine Arts’ treasured Postman Joseph Roulin (1888) and the captivating Lullaby: Madame Augustine Roulin Rocking a Cradle (La Berceuse) (1889). These iconic works are complemented by significant loans from prestigious institutions such as the Van Gogh Museum, MoMA, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Musée d’Orsay. To further enrich the visitor experience and provide context, the exhibition also includes Dutch art and Japanese woodblock prints that significantly influenced Van Gogh’s portraiture techniques. These elements offer critical insights into his artistic process, revealing the diverse inspirations behind his unique style.
Adding a personal dimension to the exhibition are letters penned by Postman Roulin himself. These intimate correspondences illuminate the profound friendship between Van Gogh and the Roulin family, marking a pivotal period in the artist’s life. Moving to Arles and navigating personal struggles, Van Gogh envisioned creating a thriving artistic community. This vision led to Paul Gauguin’s visit, and Gauguin’s works are also thoughtfully included in this exhibition, highlighting the artistic dialogues of the time.
Despite his dreams of family life, Van Gogh never had his own wife or children. In the Roulin family, he found solace and a reflection of the familial intimacy he yearned for. His portraits of the Roulins transcend time and place, capturing the essence of family in its many forms – biological, chosen, or admired from afar. This exhibition offers an unparalleled and deeply moving exploration into the emotional depths of Van Gogh’s celebrated paintings. It’s an opportunity to see how the concept of “van for family,” in its broadest, most heartfelt sense, became a powerful theme in his art.
Experience the Exhibition
Timed-entry tickets are required for all visitors, including museum members. Secure your tickets in advance to guarantee your entry and immerse yourself in this exceptional exploration of Van Gogh’s art and his poignant portrayal of family. Remember, exhibition tickets also grant you access to the Museum’s general collections, making it a full day of artistic discovery.
