The KMSKA joins Van Gogh Europe (VGE)
The KMSKA was recently invited by Van Gogh Europe (VGE) to join its network of European heritage institutions and museums connected to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh. The museum is delighted to accept this invitation, not least in light of the major Van Gogh exhibition planned for 2028.
VGE? What’s that?
Van Gogh Europe is a partnership of museums and heritage sites in the Netherlands, Belgium, France and the United Kingdom. The network is dedicated to preserving, promoting and making Van Gogh's cultural heritage accessible to a broad audience. Through international collaboration, knowledge sharing and public engagement, it supports joint projects, educational initiatives and communication strategies.
Why has the KMSKA become a member?
What is less widely known is that Antwerp, and more specifically the KMSKA, has an important art-historical and biographical connection to Vincent van Gogh. In 1885, he spent several months in Antwerp, intending to settle there temporarily before moving on to France. During this period, he studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, whose collection later became part of the foundation of the KMSKA.
His stay in Antwerp marked a significant stage in his artistic development. Alongside a productive period in which he created numerous paintings and drawings, he also began experimenting with brighter colours and Japanese influences. The city left a clear imprint on his work, with references to its streets, docks, cafés and nightlife. The KMSKA also houses an original work by Van Gogh, The Potato Harvester, created shortly before his time in Antwerp.
What does this membership mean for the museum?
Membership of Van Gogh Europe further strengthens the KMSKA's international profile and creates new opportunities for collaboration with leading institutions across the network. It also facilitates the exchange of expertise and the development of joint projects. With the Van Gogh exhibition of 2028 on the horizon, this partnership aligns perfectly with the museum's ambitions.
