Signature Talk: Jo van Gogh Bonger

Signature Talk

Jo van Gogh Bonger:
The Woman Who Would Not Let Van Gogh Die Twice

Ideal for libraries, museums, book clubs, and art centers

Step into the story of Jo van Gogh Bonger—the widow, mother, and unsung force behind Vincent van Gogh’s global legacy. In this inspiring talk, Joan Fernandez uncovers how one woman’s quiet courage and marketing intuition transformed obscurity into icon status. Audiences will explore powerful themes of grief, persistence, and feminine brilliance too often left out of the historical record. Perfect for Women’s History Month, art-focused programs, and groups drawn to stories that spark reflection, connection, and hope.

Signature Talk Testimonials:

“I couldn’t be more pleased with the results of the book signing event we recently hosted with Joan Fernandez inside the museum store. Our Van Gogh-loving audience filled the shop, not only buying every copy of Saving Vincent, A Novel of Jo Van Gogh we had in stock but also purchasing a significant amount of additional museum merchandise, all while engaging with the author. Joan Fernandez is an excellent collaborator, and working with her was incredibly smooth and enjoyable. She captivated our visitors with such an entertaining and impactful presentation that I have heard numerous requests for additional book-signing events. As soon as Joan completes her next project, I hope our museum will be the first stop on her next book tour. We can’t wait to welcome her back!”

—Amanda Boehm-Garcia,

Head of Museum Experiences at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum on Art

“Joan Fernandez shared a wonderful. . . presentation about Jo Van Gogh with our bookstore audience and told more fascinating details about her novel during the q and a. Joan is a great storyteller. Period. Saving Vincent is a superb book and Joan brought us a great book signing event!”

—Robert Eckman,

Proprietor, Belleville Books

“Joan Fernandez’s talk on Jo van Gogh at my recent private client event was thought provoking and inspiring. Her ability to captivate my guests was remarkable; they were fully engaged and had so many insightful questions! It was clear how much research and passion Joan poured into her presentation. I’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from my clients.”

—Julie Holt,

eXp Realty, Sedona

“It was an absolute delight to hear Joan Fernandez present on her book, Saving Vincent: A Novel of Jo Van Gogh. Her engaging storytelling brought to life the remarkable efforts of Jo Van Gogh Bonger, whose dedication ensured Vincent Van Gogh’s legacy would endure. Joan’s passion and insight made the presentation both inspiring and unforgettable. I would highly recommend this presentation to other libraries!”

—Constance Dee,

Daniel Boone Branch, St. Louis County Library Manager

“Brava! That was an outstanding presentation, Joan! You truly captivated the audience, they were engaged to the last minute (great job with the timing by the way). I don’t know if you saw all the ‘love’ and ‘applause’ emoji’s from participants. Thank you so much for taking the time to prepare the visuals and sharing your knowledge and genuine enthusiasm with us.”

—Sylvia Edwards Davis,

Culture Editor, France Media

“I highly recommend author Joan Fernandez’ presentation “Jo van Gogh: The Woman Who Would Not Let Van Gogh Die Twice”. Her extensive research and knowledge, combined with her actual presentation and delivery, made for a most enjoyable hour! I, myself, have always had an insatiable interest in Art History, but this is so much more. A truly memorable presentation from such a gifted individual! Don’t miss this one! And, by all means, BUY THE BOOK!!”

–Mary Saputo,

Community Outreach Coordinator, St. Louis Oasis