Van Gogh
Art Institute of Chicago

Vincent Van Gogh

Bedroom from the Yellow House

Not too many people realize that Vincent Van Gogh painted three copies of the bedroom in the Yellow House he rented in Arles, France.  For the first time in history, the three paintings are in display in the same place…at the Art Institute of Chicago.  Also, they have created a life-sized replica of the bedroom (see photo above).  The first version was painted in 1888 while he lived in the “Yellow House.”  The second and third versions were painted in 1889, a few weeks apart from each other, while at an asylum in Saint-Rémy  There are subtle differences which may not be noticeable if you only look at one of the versions.  And, you may note that the Art Institute has projected various artwork on the walls as they would have appeared in the different paintings.  (see photo above…again!)
The first painting is part of the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the second is at the Art Institute of Chicago, and the third is at Musée d’Orsay in Paris.  We’ve been to all three museums and didn’t realize that there were three different paintings!!
I think you’ll find this YouTube video (click hyperlink) worth watching if you have an interest in learning more about the three paintings.

Vincent Van Gogh

Bedroom without Illumination

Above is another perspective without the illumination shining on the wall.  Interesting to note the dimension and furnishings in the room.  Very small!!  And, Paul Gauguin had to walk through the bedroom to get to his bedroom in the house!

Vincent Van Gogh

Looking in the Window

Notice the dark voyeur in the window!!  That probably wouldn’t have happened to Van Gogh in the real bedroom since it was on the second floor.

Vincent Van Gogh

Table and Chairs with Table and Chairs

Here (above) is another interesting twist created by the curators at the Art Institute.  I thought it was interesting the way they juxtaposed the table and chairs in front of this other painting by Van Gogh titled, “The Night Cafe,” which is included in this current exhibit.

IF you have a chance to visit this Van Gogh exhibit, I highly recommend it.  Lemme know what you think!!

Thanks for visiting!
-Stephen M. Levin
www.stephenmlevinphtos.com

 

 

SML Photography