The Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit Extended Until November 21

Photo by Kim McKinney

The Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit began June 17th at Charlotte's North End. Sold out shows have been the norm. The popular exhibit has been extended yet again until November 21, 2021.

Beautiful selections of paintings of and from Vincent Van Gogh are projected in all directions in the spacious facility. Seventy projects are used for the performance. Color and light and image and movement make the performance a feast for the eyes, accompanied by music that satisfies the ears. This is not a trip to an art museum, but instead an active multi-media experience.

The performance was a collaboration of Massimiliano Siccardi (who has expertise in digital imagery, photography, video, art, and choreography) and pianist and composer Luca Longobardi. Siccardi and his team used parts and pieces of 100 of Van Gogh’s images so they can be viewed in a new and modern way.

Photo by Kim McKinney

The performance space is another part of the performance that cannot be overlooked. It was built as a factory for Ford in 1924. The architect was Albert Kahn. Exposed brick and industrial touches add much interest to the space.

Future plans call for the space to be mixed office and retail space, but it certainly is an interesting venue for artistic endeavors.

Summer complaints were that the space often seemed warm, but it is certainly pleasant at this time of year. The event space is handicapped accessible. Masks are mandated for the performance, and seating is spaced well throughout the huge expanse. The seating design is art in itself.

Photo by Kim McKinney

The audience is another interesting dimension of the show, their clothing often a canvas and their movement adding even more dimension. One young woman grabbed a corner and danced a bit during the performance I attended.

Shows run within a few minutes of each other and people constantly filter in and out, catching part of one show and the rest of another.

The gift shop has a huge selection of Van Gogh inspired items. Need a Van Gogh inspired face mask to protect you from COViD? How about a yoga mat or a water bottle or socks? Or how about an iris table light by artist Nancy Sauser? The options are endless. Some are made by local artists inspired by Van Gogh and the show, including some items from Holy Angels, a non-profit located in Belmont that works with those with intellectual development disabilities.

Photo by Kim McKinney

Photo opportunities are available everywhere, as are interesting ways to use technology to better your experience. You can scan for a pre show audio guide and a Van Gogh face filter on Instagram,

The Exhibit is located at Camp North End, 1774 Statesville Ave., in Charlotte. The exhibit is open Thursdays 12 p.m. - 9 p.m., Friday's and Saturdays 12 p.m, - 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Photo by Kim McKinney

Flex tickets allow you to arrive two hours before or after the show - not applicable for first or last shows. Flex prices are $99.99 for VIP (includes Skip The Line, Van Gogh cushion, limited edition poster), $74.98 and $59.99 (price depends on show attended and includes a limited edition poster, Van Gogh cushion (rental), and standard flex time entry benefit), and $54.99 (includes flex benefit only.)

Timed tickets are $49.99 and $39.99 (price depending on showing) for adults and $24.99 for children. You must arrive within 20 minutes of your show time.

Note ticket prices do not include ticket fees and NC sales tax.

There are also yoga and exercise classes that are further immersive experiences with the show. Check the website for more information.

Plan a bit of extra time to take in the art and businesses that make up the North End. It’s a colorful, interesting place worthy of a bit of exploration.

All in all, the experience should revive you and make you see the world through the eyes of an artist.

Photo by Kim McKinney

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