Getty Center Visit! Irises by Van Gogh and more

Last week, Art Division students had the incredible opportunity to visit the Getty Museum for a private tour of Ultra-Violet: New Light on Van Gogh’s Irises, part of the PST ART: Art & Science Collide series. Led by Devi Ormond, Associate Conservator of Paintings, and Catherine Patterson, Scientist at the Getty, this intimate tour revealed the fascinating ways science and conservation intersect with art history.

Art, Science & The Power of Reflection
One of the key takeaways from the visit was the reminder of how journaling and letter writing are essential for artists. Without Van Gogh’s meticulous notes, much of the research behind this exhibition wouldn’t have been possible. Devi encouraged our students to document their own artistic journeys, materials, and processes—not just for themselves, but for future historians who might one day study their work.

The Mystery of Van Gogh’s Irises
The exhibition highlighted how time has altered the painting itself—the once-vibrant violet irises have faded to blue due to the instability of the pigment Geranium Lake. Through cutting-edge conservation techniques, researchers are uncovering the original hues and preserving the legacy of Van Gogh’s work. Devi even pointed out a tiny spot in the corner of the painting where pollen had fallen from a tree outside Van Gogh’s hospital window, a small but powerful reminder of how closely nature and art were intertwined in his life. Thanks to Van Gogh's doctor, the hospital Saint-Rémy became the first of its kind to practice art therapy, which continues to be offered today.

Exploring Careers in the ArtsBeyond the artwork itself, Devi and Catherine shared insight into their own careers, showing our students that there are many fulfilling pathways in the arts outside of being a practicing artist. From conservation to scientific research, their work is a testament to how art can be studied, preserved, and understood in new ways.

A Day of Inspiration & Connection
After the tour, students had time to explore other exhibitions at the Getty, including Gustave Caillebotte: Painting Men and María Magdalena Campos-Pons: Behold. These moments of quiet reflection and conversation reinforced how transformative these experiences can be.
When we go on field trips, our staff carpools with students, creating opportunities for deeper conversation and connection. These moments, whether on the road or in front of a painting, are at the heart of what we do at Art Division--fostering curiosity, community, and a lifelong love of art.
Thank you to Devi, Catherine, and the Getty for this incredible experience, and to our Advisory Board member Beanie Kaman for her support.