Having traversed the globe for more than ten years, “Van Gogh Alive” finally makes its highly anticipated debut in Cuenca. This momentous occasion follows its Ecuadorian premiere in Quito, back in January 2022.
At last, an innovative and immersive exhibit that Cuencanos have been waiting two years to experience, has descended upon the Mall del Río Convention Center, captivating the senses of art enthusiasts and casual observers alike. “Van Gogh Alive,” an exhibition that transcends traditional museum visits, has transformed the space into a vibrant symphony of light, color, and sound, inviting visitors to delve deep into the life and works of the Dutch master, Vincent van Gogh.
Hernán Ganchegui, the director of Arriba el Telón, passionately described the fusion of technology and museography that defines the exhibition as an opportunity to explore the genius of Van Gogh in a pedagogical and immersive manner. Through seven thematic rooms filled with scenographic installations, visitors are transported into the world of this extraordinary artist.
Juan Manuel Cechetto, a key member of the team behind bringing the exhibit to Cuenca, emphasized that “Van Gogh Alive” is not merely a display of artwork but an interactive journey through the emotions, history, and family of Van Gogh himself. Guides accompany visitors, offering insights into each piece, its context, and the life of the painter, demystifying myths surrounding the enigmatic artist.
Within the exhibition, visitors encounter iconic paintings such as ‘Sunflowers’ and ‘The Starry Night,’ meticulously recreated in hyper-fine detail to allow for an in-depth exploration of Van Gogh’s color and technique. But the experience goes beyond mere observation; it’s a full immersion into the artist’s world, synchronized to a powerful classical score, with over 3,000 images filling screens, walls, and even the floor, enveloping attendees entirely in the vivid colors and dynamic brushstrokes that characterize Van Gogh’s style.
The exhibition is not limited to adults; children are also welcomed into a space where they can unleash their creativity through painting activities.
Open until March 3, 2024, at Mall del Río, exhibit hours are from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday thru Friday and from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Admission prices are set at $6 for adults and $4 for children and seniors.
In a city rich with culture and history, “Van Gogh Alive” adds a new dimension to Cuenca’s artistic landscape, inviting all who enter to see, hear, and feel the brilliance of one of the greatest artists of all time in a way never before imagined.
This is incorrect information. The Immersive VanGogh show has already been to Cuenca once, in Nov/Dec 2022. It was in a big tent, next to the Planetario, in Parque de la Madre. But I may go see it again. It was that good.