Step into the creative mind of one of the most influential figures in all of art history through this immersive experience in Downtown Raleigh. Vincent Van Gogh, a Dutch painter known for his world-renowned paintings such as “The Starry Night” and “Sunflowers,” provoked thought and emotion through his art that had, at the time of creation, never been experienced before. The Van Gogh Exhibit aims to continue sharing his art, not by altering his paintings but by enhancing them.

Filled with traditional art, virtual reality and art projections, The Van Gogh Exhibit is extraordinary and something that’s the first of it’s kind. Whether you’re interested in finding your zen in a world of color while performing yoga or learning to paint like the artist himself, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The experience is in downtown Raleigh, takes about 60 to 75 minutes and starts at $34.90 for adults and $19.90 for children. They’re open all week except for Tuesdays, with timeslots available every half hour. The responses are wildly positive and mostly everyone agrees that the price is reasonable for the amazing experience. 

Walking in, you immediately enter a complete 360 degree immersive experience of Van Gogh’s works of art and multiple seating arrangements so guests can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. By using projectors that take into account the mapping of walls, corners and the ceiling, the experience was able to fully come to life.

The museum fulfilled the challenge of trying to capture the true emotions of Van Gogh’s paintings. You can feel the emotion pouring down the walls as you step foot into the experience and you’ll never find an empty space throughout the event that wasn’t touched by Van Gogh’s craft. 

One of the most interesting rooms in the museum is a replica of Van Gogh’s painting “The Bedroom.” The area couldn’t be more simple, yet was so unique. As Van Gogh does with almost every one of his paintings, he wanted to invoke a sense of rest in his audience and in doing so he drew a place related to comfort and peace. 

Another popular area is “The Starry Night” room, which is filled from high to low with moving projections of Van Gogh’s painting. The walls are covered with whimsical lines and details that look like they jumped right out of the canvas; even the floors are dotted with painted stars, big and small.

The Van Gogh Exhibit is a hidden gem within our crowded city but deserves to be appreciated for its beauty and ability to make Van Gogh’s artwork touch every individual that came in.