The children will first take a look at some paintings in the museum galleries. Then they get to paint like artists in a real studio.
Children’s Workshops
Get creative with paint and brush! English spoken workshops are available on Saturday afternoon.
Theme: Create Your Own Self-Portrait
Until 11 January 2026 (excluding school holidays)
Did you know that Vincent van Gogh loved painting people? While living in Arles, in the south of France, he painted vibrant portraits full of life and character. He called these paintings ‘modern portraits’: paintings that show not only what a person looks like, but also a glimpse of their personality.
In this workshop, you’ll paint your own self-portrait, in the style of Vincent! You’ll explore his artistic approach and discover how colour can express your character or mood.
Then it's your turn! Using acrylic paint, a brush, and a mirror, you’ll create a portrait on canvas that is calm, cheerful, bold, or dreamy, entirely in your own style. Just like Vincent!
Theme: A flying fox
From 14 January until 1 February 2026
Have you ever seen a really big bat? They're called ‘flying foxes’. Did you know Vincent van Gogh also saw one of these flying foxes? He immediately painted it, with its wings spread wide.
Fancy giving it a go? During the workshop, you'll start off by sketching a flying fox in the museum gallery. Then you'll turn it into a painting in the workshop studio. Maybe your flying fox will have flaming orange wings too?
Practical information:
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Age group: Children aged 6 to 12.
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When: Saturdays from 1:30 until 3:30 pm. Check the booking system for availability.
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Duration: Two hours. Please make sure you are present at the museum 15 to 30 minutes before the start of the workshop.
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Language: The workshop is English spoken.
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Number of participants: Minimum three and maximum twelve children per workshop. Please note: The workshop will be cancelled if fewer than three children are registered. You will be notified well in advance. You can register a maximum of one group of four children. If you would like to register more children or have specific requirements, please request a private workshop by contacting reservations@vangoghmuseum.nl.
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Where: Children’s studio in the museum.
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Price: € 15 per child or € 2.50 with Citypass. Materials and soft drink are included (free museum entry for children). Would you like to join the children into the museum? The entrance fee to the Van Gogh Museum is € 24.
Clothing
The children will work with a variety of materials during the workshop, including paint and ink. They get an artist’s apron to wear, but bear in mind that there is always a chance of them splashing their clothes.
What to do while the children paint?
The workshops are exclusively for children. Please note that adults cannot attend the workshop. While the children paint, you’re welcome to explore the museum.
Cancellations or changes
Changes can be made up to two weeks prior to the visit, based on availability. In the event of cancellation, the costs incurred cannot be compensated.
More information
For more information, special requests, and private workshop bookings, please contact reservations@vangoghmuseum.nl.
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