1. Introduction

Vincent van Gogh’s fascination with portraiture reached new heights during his stay in Arles, France, in 1888–89. This exhibition brings together 23 works focusing exclusively on Van Gogh’s depictions of his neighbors, the Roulin family—a first in MFA history. Through bold color, swirling brushwork, and deep personal connection, these portraits reveal the tenderness of the bond between artist and sitters and mark a pivotal moment in Van Gogh’s creative life.

2. Van Gogh in Arles: Historical Context

• Arrival in Arles (February 1888): Seeking southern light and new subject matter, Van Gogh moved from Paris to the Provençal town of Arles.
• Meeting the Roulins: Joseph Roulin, the local postman, and his wife Augustine welcomed Van Gogh into their home; their children Armand, Camille, and baby Marcelle soon joined the portrait series.
• Artists’ Colony Dream: Inspired by his friendship with Joseph, Van Gogh envisioned a community of painters—an idea that culminated in Paul Gauguin’s famous 1888 visit.

3. The Roulin Family Portraits: Key Works

1. Portrait of Joseph Roulin (1888–89)

   The iconic “Postes” cap, thick beard, and unwavering gaze capture both civic pride and personal warmth.

   
   photo credit: BostonCentral

2. Lullaby: Madame Augustine Roulin Rocking a Cradle (La Berceuse) (1889)

   Augustine seated in a rocking chair, her serene expression and the cradle’s gentle curve evoke maternal devotion.

   
    
   photo credit: BostonCentral

photo credit: BostonCentral

1. Armand Roulin, The Schoolboy (1888)

   A study in youthful expectancy: Armand’s cap and earnest eyes hint at the responsibilities awaiting the postman’s son.

   
   photo credit: BostonCentral

2. The Baby Marcelle Roulin (1888)

   Delicate brushstrokes convey the softness of infancy in Marcelle’s rosy cheeks and bright eyes.

   photo credit: BostonCentral
   
   
   photo credit: BostonCentral

3. Self-Portrait & The Bedroom (1889)

   Placed nearby to show Van Gogh’s evolving self-image and how his interior scene at Arles influenced his compositional choices.4. Artistic Influences & Process

• Dutch Old Masters: Works by Hals and Rembrandt informed Van Gogh’s command of light and texture.
• Japanese Prints: Bold contours and flat color areas from ukiyo-e prints shaped his portrait backgrounds and patterns.
• Roulin Letters: Joseph’s correspondence offers insight into their friendship and Van Gogh’s emotional state during this prolific period.

photo credit: BostonCentral

photo credit: BostonCentral

• Friendship & Trust: Each portrait testifies to the deep bond between artist and family—a “chosen kinship” that Van Gogh treasured.
• Mental Health & Resilience: Against the backdrop of his struggles, Van Gogh found solace in the Roulin household; letters hint at mutual support.
• Community & Belonging: The portraits illustrate how Van Gogh anchored himself in Arles through human connection.

6. Visitor Information & Tips

Tickets & Hours

Timed-entry tickets required for all visitors, including members (general admission included).
Museum open daily, 10 am–10 pm.

Gallery Layout

Exhibition in Gallery LG31; adjacent galleries house related works by Gauguin and Dutch masters. Grab a map at coat check or use the MFA Mobile app.

Audio Tour

Download “MFA Mobile” for curator and conservator insights plus full transcripts and audio descriptions.

Photography Etiquette

Non-flash photography permitted; avoid tripods and blocking pathways. Best light near gallery entrances.

7. Family & Group Activities

Scavenger Hunt for Kids

1. Find Joseph Roulin’s blue “Postes” cap.
2. Spot the swirling lines in La Berceuse’s background.
3. Compare Armand’s schoolboy outfit to The Bedroom’s colors.

Conversation Prompts

• “How does Van Gogh use color to show emotion?”
• “What do families in your life look like—similar or different?”

Check for drop-in drawing tables just outside LG31.

8. Beyond the Exhibit

On-Site Dining & Shopping

MFA Café (second floor): light fare and views of Huntington Avenue.
Museum Shop: exhibition catalog, postcards, and Van Gogh–inspired gifts.

Other Exhibitions

• Van Gogh at the Intersection of Creativity and Mental Illness (next gallery)
• Modern Japanese Prints (Gallery 38)

Further Reading & Viewing

• “Meet the Postman” video on MFA website
• Catalogue essay: Van Gogh and the Roulin Family (available in shop)

9. Resources & Credits

• Exhibition Catalogue: Published by MFA, available in shop and online.
• Major Lenders: Van Gogh Museum (Amsterdam); MoMA (New York); Art Institute of Chicago; Musée d’Orsay (Paris).
• Photo Credits: BostonCentral, MFA, MoMA/Art Resource NY, Van Gogh Museum.