This exhibit has been at The Clark since mid-June, so of course, on the last day, I went to see it, along with HUNDREDS of other procrastinators. I planned to be the first one there when they opened at 10am. So did all the other procrastinators, and when I got there at 1005, the parking lot was nearly at capacity (we were directed to park on grass - good enough), and the line for admission was going along the side of the building. Good thing I'm a patient person. HA! It was fine, about 45 minutes and I was in with the paintings.

The exhibit was organized chronologically, by the place where Van Gogh was living: 1881 Holland to 1890 Auvers. So many of the familiar pieces were displayed, and many I was not familiar with - some I didn't recognize as he experimented with style and technique, but the evolution of his work was clearly defined.

The exhibit was incredible - truly, what can I possibly say? There is something indescribable about seeing these paintings up close. Wheat Stacks with Reaper, for example - one of his last works - is recognizable, and familiar, but I never had any previous attachment to it.

Seeing it from six inches away has a profound effect. Visualizing each individual brush stroke, the minute variations of color, the depth and texture of the paint on the canvas, all seen at that distance combine for an experience that is nearly overwhelming in its beauty. I studied it for a few minutes, took a break and came back to look again. It gave me that heart-swell; I could have cried from the intensity of it. That's not a bad thing at all.