By Rhonda M. Freel © Rhonda M. Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC — March 24, 2026
As a military spouse, one of the most enriching parts of moving every couple of years has been exploring the fascinating places near our new home. No matter where the Army sent us, I made it a priority to visit local museums and cultural centers to learn about the area’s history and culture.
Museums have always been one of my favorite ways to connect with a new place whether living there or just visiting. Europe especially provides easy access to many world-class collections, and one of my absolute favorites quickly became the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Even if you are not stationed overseas, a visit to Amsterdam at any point in life is something I highly recommend.
The Challenge of Big Museums
I studied art history and have traveled extensively to see many of the world’s great museums. Even when I know what to expect and have a plan, I often feel overwhelmed by their sheer size and the desire to see everything. After several hours, I usually leave feeling that I have only scratched the surface and will need to return.
Wandering aimlessly through hallways is not the best way to experience a large museum. I have learned that preparation makes all the difference. At a minimum, using the audio guide helps you efficiently see the must-see works on your first visit. On a second visit, a guided tour with a historian provides much deeper insight and a far more rewarding experience.
Considered one of the masters of post impressionism, Van Gogh expressed emotion and symbolism in his work. Especially in his many self-portraits throughout his life. Photo credit: Rhonda Freel © Rhonda Freel, Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC May 19, 2025
What makes this museum so special is its simple, chronological layout. You begin on the ground floor and work your way upward, floor by floor, following Vincent van Gogh’s life and artistic journey in order. The experience feels natural and intimate rather than exhausting.
A Deeper Appreciation
Before my first visit, I had underappreciated Van Gogh during my art history studies. Walking through his life stage by stage—seeing his work evolve—gave me a completely new understanding. I began to view his paintings through his own eyes. His brother Theo’s unwavering love, financial support, and emotional encouragement, even during Vincent’s darkest struggles with depression, moved me deeply.
Van Gogh’s The Starry Night (1889) – one of his most iconic works, painted during a time of personal turmoil yet filled with wonder and beauty. Photo credit: Public domain image courtesy of the Museum of Modern Art, New York (via Wikimedia Commons).
The museum takes you on an emotional journey through Vincent’s art and the heartfelt letters he exchanged with Theo. You see his beautiful, optimistic heart and his ability to find beauty in everyday life—especially in moments many people overlook. His famous sunflower series beautifully illustrates the stages of life: even the aging, wilting flowers are painted with vibrancy and cheer. Despite his anxiety and depression, Van Gogh maintained a “cup half full” perspective that remains truly inspiring.
Van Gogh’s sunflower series beautifully illustrates the stages of life — from vibrant youth to graceful maturity — always portrayed with optimism and appreciation for beauty at every phase. Photo credit: Public domain images courtesy of the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam (via Wikimedia Commons). Side-by-side comparison created by Ashley Creek Publishing, LLC.
A Powerful Ending
The visit culminates on the top floor with Vincent’s final, unfinished painting, Tree Roots. Many historians believe he completed it on the very day he took his own life at the age of 37. Seeing that piece brings the entire journey to a poignant close.
I knew my first trip to Amsterdam would be wonderful, but the Van Gogh Museum turned out to be an unexpected treasure. I have returned to Amsterdam several times since, and each visit to the museum still leaves me moved beyond words.
If I were ever given the chance to curate a museum or collection dedicated to a single artist, I would follow the same thoughtful approach used here — weaving the artist’s life and art together in chronological order. It is in his context that you truly come to appreciate both the humanity and the extraordinary artistry of Vincent Van Gogh.
When planning your trip to Amsterdam, missing the Van Gogh Museum would be a tragedy. Whether you are an art lover or simply someone who appreciates a well-told human story, this museum offers something truly special.
If you want to deepen your visit before you go, check out the Van Gogh Museum website: https://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/en. Here you can get tickets, see if there are any special exhibits offered during your visit and learn more about the museum and the artist.
LEGO Art Vincent Van Gogh – Sunflowers Building Set for Adults – Home Decor Idea – Brick Built Painting
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