Photo: Ben Preece
Think ‘Dubai‘, and one of the first visuals that’s bound to come to mind is that of the Burj Al Arab, one of the world’s most luxurious hotels. The iconic landmark may have opened back in 1999, but has maintained its air of exclusivity by being accessible solely to hotel residents and guests holding advanced reservations—until now.
That’s right. 22 years since its establishment, the Burj Al Arab will now open its doors to visitors. Known for its luxe interiors replete with priceless art, intricate architecture and regal design elements—from dancing fountains to that trademark 180-metre atrium—the hotel is also celebrating this new moment with some new additions. Namely, fresh interiors from KCA International, and a series of specially created artworks by London-born (and now Dubai-based) artist Louise Duggan, founder of the Ophelia Art Consultancy.
Photo: Ben Preece
Having grown up in Africa, Duggan is no stranger to vibrant art and eye-catching hues. And its exactly this colorful approach that she brought to the table when invited to create nine special paintings for Burj Al Arab’s new visitors experience. Given that the interiors of the hotel celebrate the four elements of nature, Duggan built upon the same concept, while maintaining the grandeur that has now become synonymous with the hotel’s name. To make sure the pieces complemented KCA International’s sleek new interiors, Duggan also received carpet and fabric samples in advance that helped bring all the elements together.
Photo: Ben Preece
The artist’s journey for the project began with an inspiring quote from Buddhist nun Perma Chodon: “It’s said that when we die, the four elements—earth, air, fire and water—dissolve one by one, each into the other, and finally just dissolve into space. But while we’re living, we share the energy that makes everything, from a blade of grass to an elephant, grow and live and then inevitably wear out and die. This energy, this life force, creates the whole world”. “We loved this idea that while living, we share the energy of the elements, air, earth, fire and water,” Louise Duggan says. “To embody this, we used gold lines to illustrate the movement of energy. We wanted to use the gold lines and elements of gold leaf to bring the paintings together as a collection, but more importantly, the gold in each artwork represents this idea that, as guests pass through the hotel, they leave their own trail of energy in this iconic building, therefore, adding to its life force.”
Louise Duggan. Photo: Ben Preece
The idea comes to life on the canvas in forms of stunning abstract paintings, but Duggan’s personal favorite is the piece that hangs in Burj Al Arab’s VIP lounge. Bringing all four elements together, this statement-making artwork uses red, blue, green and yellow, all overlaid with gold detailing. For a closer look at the newest attractions at the iconic hotel, keep scrolling.
Photo: Ben Preece
Photo: Ben Preece
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