Since its opening in early August, Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience has charmed art lovers and curious attendees alike. And it’s easy to see why: the exhibit has been around the globe, bringing together over 5 million attendees worldwide. Knoxville’s Van Gogh Experience is a true testament to that popularity, with its 360-degree projections of the artist’s work.
Showcased over the walls of Foothills Mall, Van Gogh’s pieces dance and twirl in a fresh way, almost as if the art comes alive. But you won’t just marvel at the post-impressionist’s oeuvre, you’ll also get to know more about the artist, his life, and the inspiration behind some of his most popular paintings. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss the breathtaking experience in Knoxville:
It’s a blend of art and technology that brings Van Gogh’s masterpiece to life
Stepping through the doors of the Van Gogh Experience is like stepping into one of Van Gogh’s paintings. The luminous exhibit uses state-of-the-art technology to breathe new life into pieces like Sunflowers, Starry Night, Almond Blossom and so much more — highlighting every brushstroke and detail like never before. And to complete the sensorial delight, a whimsical soundtrack will accompany the 360 projections.
There’s an interactive VR experience that plunges you deeper into the painter’s world
After the walk-through and projection sections of the exhibition, you’ll get to experience the inspiration behind eight of Van Gogh’s paintings during an add-on virtual reality adventure. The 10-minute journey transports you to his bedroom in Arles, where he gathered much of his inspiration, but also the Rhone River — backdrop of the ionic Starry Night piece. It’s an up-close, intimate look at Van Gogh’s life and work that will shed more light on the painter’s legacy.
The exhibit has charmed cities worldwide
The Van Gogh Experience has been touring since 2017 in Asia, the Americas and across the pond in Europe. In 2021, it was awarded Best Immersive Experience by USA Today and it ranked among the 12 best immersive experiences in the world by CNN. When you step through the doors of the Van Gogh exhibit, you know you’re in for a treat!
It’s a family-friendly experience that will keep the kids entertained
During your entire Van Gogh Experience, your kiddos will be amazed at the incredible video mapping and interactivity of the exhibit. They might even discover some paintings they didn’t know prior to stepping through the doors of the venue! Towards the end of your Van Gogh Experience adventure, kids will get the opportunity to partake in the VR section as well as an immersive sketching segment, where they’ll get to display their masterpieces on the walls of the exhibit.
The experience is sure to leave a mark
Since the experience has landed in Knoxville, visitors swooned at its breathtaking projections and interactive activities. Check out some of those reviews:
Very peaceful and beautiful! Brought tears to my eyes! Schuyler W.
This event is a must see for all ages… We took our daughters and their families. Our grands and greats range from 21 to 2. All of us were amazed and enjoyed every bit of it. You will not regret it!! Sindy M.
Awesome! So glad we did it. Lots of interesting information about Van Gogh and the VR was the best VR I have done so far. Definitely pay the $5 for the VR experience!! Gentry L.