Van Gogh family role hailed in museum's 50th birthday show

Emilie Gordenker, director of the Van Gogh Museum, removes the frame of a reproduction of the painting 'Self-Portrait With Grey Felt Hat' by Vincent Van Gogh as part of an interactive section of the exhibition 'Choosing Vincent' at Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Photo: AFP

He's one of the most famous artists in history. But Vincent van Gogh could have faded into obscurity were it not for his family - and the vision of one woman.

The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam launched its 50th anniversary celebrations on Wednesday with a new exhibit hailing their often under-appreciated role.