Van Gogh x John Madu: Paint Your Path

Discover a unique encounter between Vincent van Gogh and Nigerian artist John Madu. For the first time in its history, the Van Gogh Museum presents work by an African artist, in an artistic dialogue that opens up new perspectives.

Especially for this exhibition, Nigerian artist John Madu (1983, Lagos) created ten new works inspired by paintings by Vincent van Gogh from the museum collection. Van Gogh x John Madu: Paint Your Path was co-curated by the ReFramers.

In his vivid paintings, Madu explores themes including identity, globalisation, and cultural cross-pollination.

‘Revisiting Van Gogh’s works and reinterpreting his visuals in a West African context allows me to create a bridge between local narratives and a global audience.’
John Madu

Image: John Madu, No Food for Lazy Man II, 2025. Courtesy of Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery and the artist