New clip celebrates Van Gogh’s birthday
In collaboration with Immersive Van Gogh and the International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD), folk-rock legend Don McLean has released a new music video of his song “Vincent,” also known as “Starry, Starry Night.” The video was recorded at Immersive Van Gogh Los Angeles and was released in commemoration of Van Gogh’s birthday and World Bipolar Day on Wednesday, March 30th.
Van Gogh, born March 30, 1853, is widely thought to have struggled with bipolar disorder or other mental illness, and tragically took his own life in 1890. World Bipolar Day, recognized annually on March 30th, is a worldwide awareness initiative that provides a platform for education and discussion. The video release also commemorates the 50th anniversary of the song’s rise to No. 2 on Billboard Charts in March of 1972.
“I am excited to release this video in collaboration with Immersive Van Gogh and the International Society for Bipolar Disorders,” says McLean. “Van Gogh himself struggled with mental health, and by launching this video, we hope to support mental health awareness as a tribute to Van Gogh on his birthday. This is an especially meaningful way for me to commemorate the 50th anniversary of a song that so many people have told me has a special personal resonance for them.”
“Don McLean’s song is truly a classic,” adds Immersive Van Gogh producer Corey Ross. “We are grateful for the opportunity to bring wider awareness and understanding about bipolar disorders thanks to this collaboration.”
“Approximately 2% of the general population has bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, and it affects women and men equally of all ages,” states President of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders Professor Gin Malhi. “We are delighted to partner with Immersive Van Gogh through this initiative that celebrates both Van Gogh’s birthday and World Bipolar Day, to raise awareness of this illness and the important work of our organization and its members.”
Viewers are encouraged to make a donation to support the ISBD. Anyone who donates $40 or more will receive a two-for-one coupon code, valid through April 30th, to visit Immersive Van Gogh in any of the 14 cities where it is currently being presented.
