After being forced to close in March due to the global pandemic of COVID-19, Birmingham Hippodrome reopens its doors to the Birmingham public with the first art premiere.
Van Gogh Alive is a multi-sensory art exhibition based on the most outstanding works of the Dutch artist, Vicent Van Gogh, one of the most famous artists of postimpressionist art.
The world’s most visited multimedia exhibition experience has chosen Birmingham to be part of its first premier in the UK, opening on 8th Oct 2020 aim all ages and audiences.
Rob Kirk, Head of Commercial Operations of Grande Exhibitions, said: “It was a combination of factors but after exploring possible options up and down the UK, the opportunity arose to do something very unique and special with our partners and the Hippodrome.
Kirk added: “Being the UK’s second-largest city also had an influence as we hope it acts as a launchpad to take it to other parts of the country now we are here.”
The multisensory exhibition of the renowned postimpressionist painter will include ‘SENSORY4TM” technology, the immersive projection system which took 2 years to be developed and launched in 2011.
The multimedia system will allow Birmingham visitors to interact with Van Gogh’s pieces and be introduced to the art in a different way compared to traditional art exhibitions.
Ali Foster, communications manager for the Van Gogh Alive exhibition, said: “One of the key successes presenting Van Gogh Alive around the globe has been the opportunity to introduce a new audience to art, perhaps one that wouldn’t traditionally visit an art gallery or museum”.
“Our focus at Grande Exhibitions has always been to break down the barriers to art, science, and culture and we find that taking this different and innovative approach appeals across a wide spectrum of ages, economic backgrounds, and cultures”.
Van Gogh Alive has provided an opportunity to reopen its doors in a safe, COVID-compliant way and give Birmingham residents and the wider Midlands region the chance to get out and enjoy some art, culture, and entertainment in an innovative way.
Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: Art inspires and lifts us. It adds to the overall richness of living in a city like Birmingham. And we should never underestimate how important culture is to our city economy. Birmingham’s rich cultural life makes the city more attractive to visitors, investors, students, and others.
“We would love to see many more art events in Birmingham. Everything from global events like Van Gogh Alive to homegrown independent events – they all help to make Birmingham a fantastic and successful city”
For more detailed information about Birmingham Hippodrome COVID safety measures visit: https://vangoghaliveuk.com/covid-19/ or watch the video of COVID safety measures which Van Gogh Alive Uk shared on its Twitter account: