Vincent van Gogh’s investigative and exploratory mind underpinned his artistic skill. To help stimulate this investigative attitude in schoolchildren, the new lessons will challenge them to follow in Van Gogh’s footsteps by experimenting with colour and light.
The lessons, in which pupils work with ultraviolet led lamps and fluorescent ink, are offered for free on the Van Gogh Museum’s teaching platform. ASML is also offering packages with the necessary teaching materials to a hundred schools in the Amsterdam region.
Secrets revealed by UV
‘Masterminds & Masterpieces’ offers primary school pupils and younger secondary school pupils the opportunity to learn how art and technology are connected. By experimenting with ultraviolet led lamps and fluorescent ink, pupils discover the secrets hidden in one of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings. UV radiation plays a significant role in research into how Van Gogh made his paintings, and into their current condition. This knowledge helps the Van Gogh Museum to ensure that the paintings remain in the best possible condition for future generations.
The lessons in Dutch will be available for free on the Van Gogh Museum’s teaching platform from 10 November; the English version will follow soon. ASML will be providing a hundred schools in the Amsterdam region with the materials required to organise the lesson for 30 pupils. These schools will receive an email from the Van Gogh Museum explaining how to apply for a package.
Delivery of the teaching materials is facilitated by DHL Express, partner of the Van Gogh Museum. No package? No problem: the required materials- and where to easily find them- are outlined on the teaching platform.
Partner in Science
In 2019, the Van Gogh Museum entered into a long-term partnership with Dutch high-tech multinational ASML, in which state-of-the-art technology and Van Gogh’s search for colour and light play the lead role. As Partner in Science, ASML works with the museum to conduct research into methods for optimising the preservation of Vincent van Gogh’s world-famous paintings.
Current research includes an investigation of the impact of light on the paint used by Van Gogh, and into how the Van Gogh Museum can optimise exhibition conditions to help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy Van Gogh’s work.
The partnership between the Van Gogh Museum and ASML is also focused on facilitating educational activities that allow pupils to experience the vital importance of science and technology for art and culture.