Van Gogh Museum and DHL Deliver Art to the Classroom

The Van Gogh Museum’s educational programme, Van Gogh Goes to School, which is made possible by its partner DHL Express, gives primary-school children the opportunity to learn about the life and art of Vincent van Gogh. With a combination of guest lectures, educational resources, and a Van Gogh Museum Edition, the programme brings the world of art directly into the classroom.

A Van Gogh Museum Edition – a museum-quality 3D replica of one of Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces – was delivered to primary school Syncope in Almere, which is taking part in Van Gogh Goes to School.

As part of the programme, museum lecturers visit the school to teach pupils about Vincent van Gogh’s work, but time is also spent on discussing important themes from Van Gogh’s life, such as identity, following your dreams and dealing with setbacks. The reproduction is displayed in the classroom, literally putting the pupils in touch with Van Gogh’s work during lessons.

Sep (age 11):

‘I think it’s really cool that we now have this painting in our school. It looks like the real thing! The lessons were fun, especially drawing a chair in 3D.’

Areena (age 9):

‘I thought it was so beautiful when the case was opened! I had never seen anything like it. The lessons are better than maths. I have learnt a lot about the paintings.’

Teacher Simone Treur:

‘We are incredibly thankful for the engaging and knowledgeable guest lectures and for this wonderful reproduction. These lessons have given our pupils the opportunity to explore art and culture in a meaningful way. The visits from the guest lecturers have not only taught them more about art; they have also sparked their curiosity and imagination, and given them a greater appreciation of cultural heritage.’

DHL has been in partnership with the Van Gogh Museum since June 2020 and started sponsoring the educational programme Van Gogh Goes to School in 2026. The initiative aligns with the shared goal of both DHL and the Van Gogh Museum: that of positively impacting the lives of young people.