Van Gogh and Matthew Wong Collaborative Exhibition in Amsterdam
Matthew Wong, the self-taught Canadian painter who tragically died by suicide at the age of 35, left behind a body of work filled with art historical references. His style evokes influences from artists like Peter Doig, Edvard Munch, Henri Matisse, and Wu Guanzhong. However, it is his deep connection to Vincent van Gogh that stands out the most. Wong’s upcoming exhibition at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam will showcase his fascination with the Dutch Modernist and explore the artistic and personal relationship between the two painters.
Born in Toronto and raised between Canada and Hong Kong, Wong initially explored photography before transitioning to ink and eventually to painting. The exhibition will feature over 60 works created by Wong during his prolific career, ranging from early abstractions to his expressive landscapes. The show will also include a selection of Van Gogh’s iconic works such as “Wheatfield” and “The Bedroom.”
Wong’s struggles with mental health, including Tourette’s syndrome, depression, and autism, have contributed to the mystique surrounding his art. The exhibition aims to celebrate Wong’s artistic achievements while also raising awareness of mental health issues. Through a variety of paintings, Wong’s affinity with Van Gogh is palpable, with recurring themes and stylistic similarities evident in their work.
The exhibition will offer a nuanced exploration of the parallels and distinctions between Wong and Van Gogh, highlighting Wong’s unique approach to painting and his diverse inspirations beyond just Van Gogh. Practical measures will be in place to offer support and information on mental health resources for visitors. Ultimately, the exhibition is a celebration of art and a testament to the enduring power of painting as a form of expression.
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Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.