Van Gogh Experience Inspires Care Home Group to Recreate Classics

Art-loving residents at a Nottingham care home were so inspired by a trip to see an immersive Van Gogh exhibition that they picked up their paintbrushes to recreate his masterpieces.

The group from Edwalton Manor Care Home enjoyed a trip out to the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham to see ‘Beyond Van Gogh’.

Residents were enthralled by the immersive experience, which uses music, projections and set design to ‘breathe new life’ into beloved artworks including ‘The Starry Night’, ‘Sunflowers’ and ‘Café Terrace at Night’.

So, when they arrived back at the care home, they picked up their paintbrushes to recreate the paintings, having seen them with fresh eyes.

Resident Sheila Baker, aged 91, said: “It was so magical that I felt completely inspired and loved the chance to paint my own version of Van Gogh’s works.

“What a clever way to show art and to take you inside the paintings. It was a sensory experience and unforgettable for me as someone who loves art. I have visited the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam on two occasions, making the magic of Van Gogh even more poignant.”

Meanwhile, fellow resident Tecwyn Jones, aged 100, said he hoped that people who don’t usually consider themselves art lovers could have their minds changed by an exhibition like this.

Tecwyn said: “Few of us can boast about being drawn to famous works of art, but when viewed in motion on high walls, ceilings and floors as displayed by the “Beyond Van Gogh” immersive experience, it could change attitudes towards and enthusiasm for art and the works of the masters.”

The trip was made possible thanks to support from Myley, who provided accessible transport so all the residents could get to the exhibition in comfort and safety.

For Wellbeing and Lifestyle Coordinator Alice Kirkby, it was a fantastic opportunity for the team at Edwalton Manor to support residents to enjoy something new.

Alice reflected: “It’s one of those experiences where words and pictures don’t do it justice.

“The residents didn’t really know what to expect, but I am so happy they enjoyed it. Some of them even told their loved ones about it, and they went to see what it was all about.”