VAN GOGH 2000

Closing the 20th century in honour of Vincent van Gogh.

On December 31st 1999, the last day of the 20th century, a unique ceremony was held in the house where Vincent van Gogh was born, at the Markt 26, in Zundert, Noord-Brabant,The Netherlands.

Here, in the late afternoon,the well-known Dutch painter and artist, Jan van Gogh has put the finishing touch,including date and signature, on an oil painting, called "Desire"(90*130 cm).

This last work of art of the 20th-century is loaded with a symbolism that fits the atmosphere of this very special place,and was dedicated by Jan van Gogh to his illustre predecessor and namesake Vincent van Gogh.

This event was witnessed by mr. P. Neeb, Mayor of Zundert and mr. C.H.M. Verdaasdonk, of the Cultural Centre van Gogh. The notary M. Boemaars made up a certificate of the event.

For many, the recent turn of the century has been a moment of reflection at past events and major developments throughout human history. Considering the development of the arts, the life and work of the illustre Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890), with a major influence on the art of painting in Europe and in the USA, cannot be neglected.

It seems fitting that the honour of being at the center Of this ceremony befell to Jan van Gogh. The lifes of both artists show striking parallels. We speak not only of their outer appearance, but also about the Regions (France and Brabant) where both have lived and worked, and the dominating themes of their work (the female element, nature). We also speak about their struggle against injustice and the struggle for elusive loves.

Both have found a way of expression in word, paint and poetry. Looking at the style, the development that Jan van Gogh has made in his artistic expression could be considered as a sequel to the work of his famous predecessor and, without doubt, remote member of the family.

The ceremony of 31-Dec-1999, which was registered on film, was open only on invitation, and could only be attended by a limited group of people. The journalists present have published their articles only after the turn of the 20th century, in conformity with the wishes of the organizing committee.

The ceremony was closed appropriately with a meal of warm, roasted potatoes, accompanied by French accordion music and a rich flow of Champagne.

Awaiting a more definite purpose, the unique painting has become the property of the Jan van Gogh Foundation. This means, that it is possible for a limited number of collectors to obtain a certified, fast-dyed copy of this work, the last in honour to Vincent van Gogh in the 20th century. The production of this copy takes place according to an advanced, computer-aided process, in which UV-resistant pigments are sprayed on specially prepared canvas. The process is concluded by the application of a protective layer of varnish.

For more information, please contact:

The Jan van Gogh Foundation
Vianendreef 9, 4841 LG, Prinsenbeek (NB), The Netherlands
phone: + 31 76-5421210, fax + 31 76-5429234
Chamber of Commerce Westelijk Noord-Brabant, The Netherlands, nr. S 107279