This summer, The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx transforms into a living, walkable Van Gogh painting. From May 24 through October 26, 2025, Van Gogh’s Flowers brings the Dutch master’s deep connection to nature vividly to life across NYBG’s 250 acres—featuring towering sunflowers, immersive art installations, and sculptural still lifes blooming throughout the landscape.
Experience Van Gogh’s Garden Come to Life
Inspired by Vincent van Gogh’s iconic floral paintings and his transformative time in Arles, France, this extraordinary exhibition showcases over 18,000 plants and 32 varieties of sunflowers, all grown specifically for the show. The centerpiece features a monumental field of real and sculptural sunflowers designed by acclaimed French artist Cyril Lancelin, creating an immersive environment where visitors can walk among Van Gogh’s signature motif at breathtaking scale.
Art Meets Horticulture in the Conservatory
Inside the stunning Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, the exhibition continues with large-scale metalwork sculptures by Kansas City artist Amie Jacobsen. Her oversized roses, irises, and imperial fritillaries respond directly to Van Gogh’s beloved still life paintings, set against living botanical backdrops to create three-dimensional interpretations of his masterworks. Jacobsen, who spent four months crafting these intricate sculptures, described the project as “a technical and emotional challenge.”
Visitors will also discover a meticulously recreated hospital garden from Arles, which Van Gogh painted during his 1889 stay. This botanical reconstruction includes authentic architectural elements and flower beds matching the original garden’s historical design.
A Seasonal Journey Through Van Gogh’s Palette
NYBG’s expert horticulture team began preparations more than a year in advance, carefully selecting flower varieties to bloom in perfect succession from spring through fall. Early-season displays of vibrant delphiniums and carnations in the conservatory gradually transition to begonias, zinnias, asters, and chrysanthemums as autumn approaches.
The outdoor sunflower displays feature multiple varieties including the four-foot Provence Summer, the towering Mammoth, and the perennial Maximilian, all blooming in carefully timed succession throughout the exhibition. These living displays are complemented by contemporary artwork from Graphic Rewilding, whose colorful installations surrounding the Conservatory and reflecting pools echo Van Gogh’s expressive use of color.
Interactive Experiences and Special Events
Van Gogh’s Flowers offers immersive programming beyond the visual spectacle. Visitors can participate in drop-in plein air painting sessions, family-friendly LEGO sunflower building workshops, and hands-on craft stations designed for all ages.
On select Friday and Saturday evenings through September, NYBG hosts Starry Nights after-hours events featuring live music, craft cocktails, and—weather permitting—New York’s first Van Gogh-themed drone show. This spectacular display recreates The Starry Night in the night sky using hundreds of synchronized, glowing drones.
Extend Your Van Gogh Experience
Art and culinary enthusiasts can book the exclusive Van Gogh Floral Afternoon Tea at The Peninsula New York’s Gotham Lounge, available through June 28. This special package includes edible flower-themed treats, admission to NYBG, and an optional $400 VIP upgrade featuring a private golf cart tour, gourmet lunch, and exclusive gift card.
“You’ve seen the paintings—now see them come to life in the garden,” said NYBG CEO Jennifer Bernstein.
Plan Your Visit to Van Gogh’s Flowers
🌻 Exhibition: Van Gogh’s Flowers
🗓️ Dates: May 24 – October 26, 2025
📍 Location: The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
🎟️ Tickets: Available at nybg.org
🚇 Getting There: Take Metro-North to Botanical Garden Station or subway to Bedford Park Blvd (B, D trains)