DAVIDSON FOR UKRAINE

One of the first big events to return to the local area following the re-opening of some aspects of the arts and entertainment world is the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit in Charlotte. Billed as the #1 selling show in the world, the initial announcement of the exhibit pre-dated COVID. In the works for several years, the exhibit opened at the historic Ford building at Camp North End in June, and it will be open until September 12.

And while you can see more detailed information about the exhibit at their website, your News of Davidson team asked one of our own editors, Allyson Ray, to describe her experience. Here are the questions we posed, and the answers she provided. We also asked another one of our editorial board members, Bill Giduz, to share a photo or two.

When did you see the exhibit?- I attended the exhibit with five friends in July 2021.

What is the number one image that sticks in your mind? – I loved the way the images moved and morphed from one scene to another. The rhythmic movement surrounded us.  The primary image that sticks in my mind when I remember the exhibit is one of green arches against yellow stucco walls. One of my friends and I asked which image was our favorite and our answer was “the one I’m currently viewing.” The colors throughout the exhibit were vibrant. “Immersive” is the perfect adjective for the experience.

The show runs roughly 35 minutes, how many shows did you watch? – The show runs continuously, and we entered the large room not knowing where we were in the show, but we saw the show 2-1/2 times. I would have watched longer, but some people in our group were ready to go. Viewing was interesting with s circle drawn for your group. We had options to sit on the floor, stand, or sit on a bench or folding chair. We moved around the room several times to get different perspectives of the images.

Did you learn anything new about Van Gogh? – I watched two movies about Van Gogh prior to attending the show because I wanted to learn more about Van Gogh. The first, “Loving Vincent,” shared information about Van Gogh’s life using animated paintings. It is a creative and beautiful film. The second, “At Eternity’s Gate,” explored Van Gogh’s life, especially his relationships with his brother and with Paul Gaugin. Seeing the exhibit makes me wonder what other great works of Van Gogh would have produced if he had not died at the age of 37.

Do you recommend it to your neighbors? – I have recommended it to many friends and neighbors. Parking was free in a lot next to the Camp North End, which housed the exhibit. It was very well organized and never felt too crowded. Plus, it gave us an excuse to have a lovely meal in Charlotte.