Few need a new reason to motivate them to view a Van Gogh painting in person. But just in case: This one is a masterpiece.
Individuals within a day’s drive of Minneapolis should not hesitate to book their next visit to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, as a masterpiece by Vincent van Gogh is on view from the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam — and admission to see it is free. While every painting by the expressionist can be considered great, there is a hierarchy, and “Irises” is near the top. The painting, dated to 1890, is one of the artist’s mature paintings, displaying the full range of Van Gogh’s transcendent touch. A brilliant yellow background commands the attention immediately. And then, leaping from the surface, is a bouquet of breathtaking blue irises.
To view a van Gogh in person is an entirely different experience than seeing it reproduced in books or on screen. The life and energy radiating from “Irises” leave no doubt in viewers as to why van Gogh has earned such renown and fame. This vibrancy is communicated through both the magnetic primaries and the complimentary colors, along with the rich tactile texture made famous by the artist. Indeed, there is enough visual interest infused into this, and all of van Gogh’s work, to keep an enthusiast occupied for some time.
“Irises” will be on view through October 4.
To learn more, visit the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.
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Van Gogh in Focus
