Though it has been 125 years since his death, the work of Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh continues to move and inspire. To mark this anniversary, the Van Gogh Europe Foundation organized exhibitions and events across 2015 in the Netherlands, Belgium, France and England. Under the banner “125 Years of Inspiration,” the Van Gogh Museum collaborated with the Kröller-Müller Museum, Van Gogh Brabant and the Museum of Fine Arts, Mons, along with many cultural institutions dedicated to preserving the artist’s legacy across these four countries.
Highlights of the program included a range of exhibitions showcasing Van Gogh’s development as an artist and his influence on later generations. In Mons, Belgium, the Museum of Fine Arts presented Van Gogh in the Borinage, the Birth of an Artist (Jan. 27–May 17), tracing his early years and the experiences that shaped his vision. The Noordbrabants Museum in the Netherlands featured shows such as Design from the Country of The Potato Eaters (Jan. 24–April 26) and an exhibition of works from the Kunstsammlung Würth that included pieces by Hockney, Picasso and Tinguely, offering contrasting perspectives alongside Van Gogh’s legacy. At the Kröller-Müller Museum, Van Gogh & Co. (April 25–Sept. 27) highlighted the dialogue between Van Gogh and his contemporaries, illustrating how his work resonated within wider artistic currents.
These exhibitions and partnerships emphasized conservation, scholarship and public engagement, combining paintings, drawings and contextual materials to give visitors a fuller sense of Van Gogh’s life, technique and enduring impact. By bringing together museums, regional initiatives and research institutions, the 2015 program aimed to celebrate the artist’s contributions while encouraging new interpretations and appreciation among diverse audiences.
Beyond the major showcases, smaller events and educational activities were organized to reach local communities and young audiences, reinforcing Van Gogh’s relevance for contemporary viewers. Workshops, lectures and guided tours complemented the exhibitions, offering opportunities to explore themes such as the artist’s early struggles, his relationship with the landscape, and the technical aspects of his work.
Collectively, the 125th anniversary activities presented a multifaceted portrait of Van Gogh: not only as a singular genius whose paintings command attention worldwide, but also as an artist shaped by personal experience, regional ties and artistic dialogue. The coordinated effort by museums and cultural organizations across four countries underlined the international importance of safeguarding and interpreting Van Gogh’s heritage for future generations.