Take Part in One of the Exciting Van Gogh Museum Workshops

The Van Gogh Museum is not just a place where you can stare at the incredible masterpieces. They've got some pretty unique workshops where you can channel your inner artist and let your creativity flow, all with the help of the legendary Van Gogh. Get hands-on and learn some of Van Gogh's techniques, all guided by experienced instructors. It's a fun way to explore your artistic side and see the world through Van Gogh's colorful lens. So grab your brushes, book a workshop slot, and get ready to create something amazing!

Plan your visit

Why you should participate in a Van Gogh Museum painting workshop

Level up your painting skills: Ever wondered how Van Gogh achieved those swirling brushstrokes and vibrant colors? If you want to learn the tricks of the trade from experienced artists, join these workshops!
Unlock your inner artist: Try your hand at recreating a Van Gogh masterpiece from what you’ve learned about the artist’s techniques. Don't worry if you're a beginner – experimentation is encouraged!
See art history come alive: These workshops go beyond just painting. You'll learn about the world Van Gogh lived in and the things that inspired his masterpieces.
Make new friends: Meet other creative folks who share your passion for art and creativity. Who knows, you might just find your new partner for future museum adventures!

Van Gogh Museum exhibitions

Van Gogh Museum painting workshops 2024

Matthew Wong | Vincent van Gogh

Date: From July 12 to August 18
Timings: 10:30am (English) or 2:30pm (Dutch)
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
For whom: Ages 16 and above
Price: €28
Number of participants: Maximum of 15 people

What it’s about: In this workshop, you'll get to unleash your creativity and create your own fantasy space using different art supplies. We're talking acrylics for those bold pops of color, oil pastels for smooth blending, and even the secret weapon – the dot technique Matthew Wong loved to use. Be ready to experiment, have fun, and transform your blank canvas into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece!

Impressionist and Pointillist Painting

Date: From July 22 to July 28
Timings: 10:30am (English) or 2:30pm (Dutch)
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
For whom: Ages 16 and above
Price: €28
Number of participants: Maximum of 15 people

What it’s about: Van Gogh and his contemporaries would spend their days at the Seine River painting with bright colors and loose brushstrokes. They experimented with the Pointillism technique, where they'd place tiny dots of paint next to each other to build up the image. Learn more about some famous paintings that used these techniques, and then you'll get to create your mini-masterpiece in the studio.

Expressive Still Lifes

Date: From July 29 to August 24
Timings: 10:30am (English) or 2:30pm (Dutch)
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
For whom: Ages 16 and above
Price: €28
Number of participants: Maximum of 15 people

What it’s about: *Sunflowers* might be one of the best Van Gogh paintings. This workshop is about capturing the essence of Van Gogh's unique style – bold colors and energetic brushstrokes. Get a first-hand look at some of Van Gogh's still lives in the museum and put your newfound knowledge into action! Use those expressive colors and dynamic brushstrokes to unleash your inner artist and create something unique.

Nature in Detail

Date: From August 5 to August 11
Timings: 10:30am (English) or 2:30pm (Dutch)
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
For whom: Ages 16 and above
Price: €28
Number of participants: Maximum of 15 people

What it’s about: Ever wished you could jump into a Van Gogh landscape painting? This workshop is your chance to get close! You'll start with a guided tour, where you can get up close and personal with some of Van Gogh's amazing landscapes. Then, it's your turn to create your masterpiece! You'll learn to use color, composition, and brushstrokes (just like Van Gogh) to capture your emotions when looking at a landscape.

Children's workshops

Timings: 10:30am (Saturdays)
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
For whom: Ages 6 to 12
Languages available: Dutch
Price: €15 (Per child)
Number of participants: Maximum 12 children per workshop

What it’s about: This workshop is the perfect way for kids to unleash their inner artist. After a museum tour, the kids will head to a real artist's studio, where they can grab brushes and paint their masterpieces. This workshop is a fun way for kids to learn about art and experiment with different colors and techniques!

Note: A maximum of two parents or adult relatives can visit the museum, but they cannot be present at the workshop.

Frequently Asked Questions about Van Gogh Museum workshops

What types of painting workshops are offered at the Van Gogh Museum?

Workshops include Impressionist and Pointillist Painting, Expressive Still Lifes, and Nature in Detail, inspired by Van Gogh's techniques. There are also painting workshops for children on Saturdays.

How long do the workshops last?

Most workshops last approximately 2 hours, sometimes including a guided tour of relevant museum sections.

Do I need prior painting experience to join a workshop?

No, the workshops are designed for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced artists.

Are materials provided in the workshops?

All necessary painting materials, including canvases, brushes, and paints, are provided during the Van Gogh Museum workshop. You even get to take home a souvenir you painted!

How old do you have to be to participate in the painting workshops?

Most painting workshops are suitable for anyone above the age of 16. There are also specific painting workshops meant for children between the ages of 6 and 12. It's available in Dutch and costs around €15.

How can I book a spot in a workshop?

Bookings for the Van Gogh Museum Painting Workshops can be made online. Book a workshop on the Van Gogh Museum website: Simply choose the number of participants and the language you prefer (English or Dutch), select ‘Workshops’ under ‘Choose a programme’, and choose the date and time of your visit.

Is there a cost to participate in a workshop?

Yes, there is a fee of €28, which includes workshop participation, materials, etc. This, however, does not include the museum entrance fee.

How many participants are in each workshop?

Workshops are kept small to ensure personalized guidance, usually up to 15 participants.

Are the workshops conducted in English?

Most workshops are offered in both Dutch and English. The children's painting workshops, however, are only available in Dutch.

What should I wear to the workshop?

Just wear something comfy that you won’t mind getting a bit of paint on.