About the Van Gogh Museum

Museum History

The Van Gogh Museum, located in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is dedicated to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. The museum opened its doors on June 2, 1973, and has since become one of the most visited museums in the Netherlands. The collection includes over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 750 letters by Van Gogh, as well as a collection of Japanese prints and works by artists who were influenced by Van Gogh or with whom he exchanged work, such as Gauguin, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Bernard.

The museum's origin lies in the Van Gogh family's desire to preserve and exhibit Vincent's works. Vincent Willem van Gogh, the artist's nephew, played a crucial role in establishing the museum. He inherited the collection in 1925 and later transferred it to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation in 1962. The Dutch government contributed to the construction of the museum, designed by Gerrit Rietveld and later expanded by Kisho Kurokawa.

Over the years, the Van Gogh Museum has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate the growing number of visitors and to enhance the visitor experience. The museum is committed to preserving and promoting Van Gogh's art and legacy for future generations.

The Van Gogh Museum not only showcases Van Gogh's artistic genius but also provides insights into his life, struggles, and relationships with other artists. Through its extensive collection and educational programs, the museum aims to deepen the public's understanding and appreciation of Van Gogh's work and his impact on the art world.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Van Gogh Museum is to preserve, study, and make accessible the art and life of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. We strive to inspire and enrich diverse audiences by providing engaging and informative experiences that promote a deeper understanding of Van Gogh's artistic vision, his personal struggles, and his lasting impact on the world. The museum is committed to:

• Preserving and safeguarding the Van Gogh collection for future generations.
• Conducting and disseminating scholarly research on Van Gogh and his art historical context.
• Presenting exhibitions and educational programs that are accessible, inclusive, and relevant to diverse audiences.
• Fostering a welcoming and enriching environment for visitors of all backgrounds and abilities.
• Collaborating with other institutions and organizations to promote the study and appreciation of Van Gogh's art.

We believe that Van Gogh's art has the power to inspire, challenge, and connect people across cultures and generations. Through our work, we seek to ensure that his legacy continues to resonate and enrich the lives of those who encounter his art.

Curator's Message

Dr. Annelies Dijkstra, Head Curator

"Welcome to the Van Gogh Museum, a place where art and life converge. As Head Curator, I am honored to lead a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about preserving and sharing the remarkable legacy of Vincent van Gogh. Our collection is a testament to his artistic genius, his emotional depth, and his unwavering commitment to his craft."

"In our exhibitions and programs, we strive to present Van Gogh's work in new and illuminating ways, exploring the contexts in which he created his art and the impact he has had on subsequent generations of artists. We are committed to making the museum accessible to all, regardless of background or ability, and to creating a welcoming and enriching environment for visitors from around the world."

"I invite you to explore our collection, engage with our programs, and discover the enduring power of Van Gogh's art. Whether you are a seasoned art historian or a first-time museum visitor, I hope that your experience at the Van Gogh Museum will be both inspiring and transformative."

"We are constantly working to improve and expand our offerings, and we welcome your feedback and suggestions. Thank you for visiting the Van Gogh Museum, and I hope you enjoy your time with us."

Staff Biographies

Pieter de Vries

Senior Conservator

Pieter has been with the Van Gogh Museum for over 20 years, specializing in the preservation and restoration of Van Gogh's paintings. He holds a PhD in Art Conservation from the University of Amsterdam.

Maria Jansen

Head of Education

Maria leads the museum's educational programs, developing engaging and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. She has a Master's degree in Museum Education from Leiden University.

David Chen

Digital Media Manager

David manages the museum's online presence, creating digital content and strategies to engage audiences worldwide. He has a background in digital marketing and communications.

Fatima El Moussaoui

Visitor Services Manager

Fatima oversees the museum's visitor services, ensuring a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all guests. She has extensive experience in hospitality and customer service.

Contact Information

We're always happy to hear from you. Whether you have a question about our collection, a suggestion for improvement, or just want to say hello, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Our Address:

The Van Gogh Museum is committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of technology or ability. See our Accessibility Statement for more details.