In Toronto, the organizers of an immersive exhibition on Van Gogh had an idea to reconcile art and pandemic: to create a space and a show dedicated exclusively to motorists, an initiative presented as a world first. This exhibition in the world of the famous painter was due to start in early May in Toronto, but the coronavirus epidemic forced the organizers to postpone the first and find alternatives. " Because of the Covid-19, we had to think creatively, " said Corey Ross, the exhibition's co-organizer, to AFP.
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As Canada's largest city gradually declines, the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit was able to start this week. With two rooms: one - with circles of physical distance projected on the ground - for those who prefer to walk, and the other intended for cars. Seeing the spectacle of the comfort of his car allows the most fragile - and the most concerned - to enjoy art safely, he says. It is also a unique experience. " You've never had an experience like this from your car," says Corey Ross. It's like the car is floating through the works of art. "
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The show was developed in collaboration with the creators of the Van Gogh exhibition , The Starry Night , presented last year at the Atelier des Lumières in Paris. Similar in concept, the Toronto exhibit is a digital art experience with works by the Dutch painter animated and projected in large format on large walls.
Intended for pedestrians, the exhibition has been adapted for motorists: the room can contain about ten cars, which park in defined locations. The motors remain off during the projection, accompanied by music. The height of the works has been reduced so that they can be seen through the windshield. Sitting behind their steering wheel, phone in hand to take photos and children on their knees, visitors are immersed for 35 minutes in the universe of the painter.
In Plymouth 1950
Jessica Counti came with the family for the premiere of the drive-in Friday morning to celebrate her sister's birthday. " It's really an immersion experience that you can't have in a classical art gallery," says the 17-year-old girl. I really liked it even if you can't walk through the works of art. "
On the other side of the room, Patrick Corcoran, 52, lived the show behind the wheel of his vintage car, a 1950 Plymouth. “ Just being in his car (...) and enjoying the art ... It was comfortable. And with everything that's going on in the world with the Covid-19, it's secure, ”he says. If he is delighted with the success of his concept, Corey Ross thinks that the phenomenon will however be temporary. " As soon as we have the opportunity to experience art the way we like it, that is to say in a group, with people with whom we can talk, meet strangers (...) and be part of a community, I think we will go back to that, "he said. The room for motorists is almost full until the end, scheduled for August 9. The pedestrian exhibition is scheduled to continue until the end of September.
