On 27 September 2023 the official launch event took place in the museum with members of the press, influencers, and museum staff. From 28 September 2023 until 7 January 2024 children could enjoy various Pokémon themed activities at the museum.
The partnership was based on the shared link with Japanese art and culture: Pokémon is a Japanese pop culture icon, and Japanese prints were a significant source of inspiration for Vincent van Gogh.
The Pokémon themed activities included:
Pokémon paintings on view
Artists Naoyo Kimura (1960), sowsow (1988) and Tomokazu Komiya (1973) made Pokémon paintings inspired by famous works by Vincent van Gogh, such as Pikachu inspired by Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat, Munchlax & Snorlax inspired by The Bedroom, and Sunflora inspired by Sunflowers.
Pokémon Adventure & Drawing Pikachu
Children aged six and above could participate in the Pokémon Adventure at the museum, which introduced them to the Pokémon paintings and the stories behind Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces.
Furthermore, a guided video activity was available in the museum that taught young visitors how to draw fan favourite Pokémon Pikachu, and encouraged them to try this for themselves.
Pokémon Adventure treasure hunt along the Pokémon paintings