Van Gogh and the Olive Groves

Vincent Van Gogh, Olive Trees with the Alpilles in the Background, 1869, MOMA, New York.

Upon arriving at the asylum of Saint-Rémy in May 1889, Vincent van Gogh was immediately captivated by the region’s abundant olive groves. That June through December, he produced a striking series of paintings that capture olive trees at different times of day and in different seasons. Van Gogh and the Olive Groves brings together this significant series for the very first time. It explores the intensely personal and spiritual meaning the motif held for the artist, while tracing his shifting motivations and stylistic approaches. Bold and experimental, the olive grove series reveals Van Gogh’s passionate investigation of the expressive powers of color and line, and his enduring belief in the consoling power of art. is the first exhibition dedicated to the legendary artist's important olive grove series, produced in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence in the final year of his life.

The exhibition, co-organized by the DMA and the Van Gogh Museum, reveals new discoveries on the artist’s techniques, materials, and palette through works drawn from public and private collections. It will travel to Amsterdam early next year.