An exhibition at the Van Gogh Museum has been thrown into chaos by scalpers, hoping to cash in on a limited edition Pokémon x Van Gogh-inspired Pikachu promotional card.
Pokémon frequently collaborates with pop culture icons and businesses. Most recently, Pokémon and Ninetales. In addition to the museum experience at the ongoing Pokémon x Van Gogh Museum exhibition, this time there is also a special limited edition trading card “Pikachu with Gray Felt Hat” for those who successfully participated in the tour related, with past cards fetching several hundred dollars at previous resale auctions.
According to YouTuber Dr. Applesauce Two, a rare Pikachu card listing that attracted bids on eBay even before the show took place, shows that potential owners are willing to pay huge sums for an unsecured item. The Van Gogh Museum was accused of not providing appropriate crowd control measures nor taking into account the risks to online resellers. While trading cards were also available online, stock at the Pokémon Center quickly ran out and the official Pokémon X (formerly Twitter) account issued a public apology.
“We apologize to all the fans who were eagerly awaiting the launch of Pokémon Center x Van Gogh Museum today,” the statement read. “Due to overwhelming demand, all products in our collection are sold out. We understand this is disappointing for many people who are looking to our official email and social media channels for guidance on how and when to purchase. We’re actively looking to offer additional ‘Pikachu with Gray Fedora’ promotional cards for fans shopping at Pokémon Centers in the future. Detailed information will be announced later. Thank you for your understanding and continued support. #PokemonVanGoghMuseum”
Fans ironically called the decision a great win for speculators, as Pokémon’s statement officially confirmed supply shortages that often increase demand and prices. Fans also noticed the notable absence of children in the video.
While fans may not receive special promotional cards, the Pokémon exhibit at the Van Gogh Museum remains open until January 7, 2024. The Van Gogh Museum describes it as follows: “Pokémon’s Pikachu , Eevee, Snorlax and more are at the Van Gogh Museum through January 7, 2024! Join a Pokémon Adventure and get a special promotional card to add to your collection, see Pokémon paintings inspired by Van Gogh’s famous masterpieces, or get creative and draw Pikachu. Don’t miss out and book your museum tickets now.”
Source: Pokémon Trading Community, Van Gogh Museum, Dr. Applesauce Two