Even a hotel as renowned as The Dorchester changes over time. Throughout its nine decades, the Dorchester has undergone numerous renovations and improvements in order to remain at the forefront of the luxury hotel market and to provide the finest of everything to its guests. The Dorchester is currently undertaking one of its most substantial renovations since it originally opened its doors in 1931, with the goal of reaffirming its standing as a world leader and repositioning itself in the London architectural environment.
As part of the renovation, The Dorchester, partnered with VISTO, a Paris-based art consultancy, to commission original works by contemporary British artists for display in the newly planned public areas, rooms, and suites. The exhibition began on May 10th, the 2nd day of London Craft Week this year.
VISTO creates unforgettable art collections based on compelling narratives. The Dorchester and VISTO unveiled the story behind the new artwork, as well as a sneak glimpse at some of the pieces, the inspiration for the collection, and an introduction to some of the outstanding artists commissioned for the exhibition.
Christian Furr, a British painter, earned a reputation for himself in 1995, when he became the youngest artist to paint an official portrait of the Queen at the age of 28. From landscapes to animals to cheese, Christian's art is royal.
Christian Furr painted the Queen and wanted a close up, she brought the blanket and he included it. He picked her clothes, colors and composition and she picked the tiara. He did the painting by mixing two different paintings he did of them together.
Sophie Coryndon, represented by Todd Merrill Studio in New York and Studio Coryndon in the United Kingdom, was another of the artists present. Her work has been presented and collected abroad, as well as featured in several magazines. She uses multiple skills such as bronze casting, painting, gilding, and sculpting.
Inspired by close observation and appreciation of the natural world and a love of historical ornaments; her work spans the worlds of fine and applied art and design.
The Dorchester legacy is profoundly embedded in the historic fabric of some of the world's most amazing cities, from Hotel Eden becoming the first hotel in Rome to offer luxuries such as elevators and electricity in 1889 to The Dorchester holding post-World War II royal charity dances in London. Art is part of what has always defined them in the many years it has been in operation. It certainly remains a central element of what has made the Dorchester what it is today, and it was only natural that the Dorchester would commission a collection of new and original art to be exhibited in their public areas.
