In his journey through the Lowlands, as far as the Borinage, Van Gogh spent a short yet important time in Brussels. Not many people know about this period, but it is now the subject of a tourist information post, installed and unveiled today in the Place Sainte-Catherine, right in the middle of the European capital.
A tourist information post describing Van Gogh’s time in Brussels in 1878 has been unveiled today right in the heart of Brussels. On the left of the frontispiece of Sainte-Catherine Church, it outlines this important time for one of the greatest painters of the 19th century.
Brussels – a short yet vital stay
Before deciding to dedicate his life to painting, Van Gogh was committed to pursuing a religious career as a Reformed Protestant. When his training in his homeland was unsuccessful, Brussels was the first step on his subsequent journey. He came to the Place Sainte Catherine where Reformed Protestants occupied several houses, and where Van Gogh spent 3 months training.
Ultimately, not particularly well suited to his religious ambitions, he left the city and went to the Borinage where he would throw himself wholeheartedly into painting.
Although this period was short, it is still important, as it proved vital for his career as an artist and his contribution to the history of art.
More discerning cultural tourism
Unlike the Grand-Place, the Atomium or the Galeries de la Reine, whose beauty jumps out at visitors, the story described on this information post is more targeted at experienced cultural tourists who are keen to know more about Brussels and the illustrious individuals who have spent time here.
Text of the information post
From 1857 to 1970, the Reformed Protestants occupy the west side of the Place Sainte-Catherine (Nos. 3-9). Their Church was then located behind No. 5-7. The first ambition of the painter Vincent Van Gogh (1853-1890) was to become a Protestant pastor. After the failure of his studies in the Netherlands, he follows here a less thorough training from August to November 1878. He then joined a preacher in Wasmes (Colfontaine). Where he soon decided to devote himself entirely to his artistic destiny.
