Another key to Erlich’s work is architecture, where he focuses his efforts on making art and history attainable for all. “The Cloud”, consisting of multiple panes of glass, lives within the historical refectory of Villa San Michele’s walls. The hotel, a work of art itself, was once a 15th century monastery, still home to preserved ancient frescos, cutting-edge street art, and a facade attributed to Michelangelo. When seen from various angles the unique floating work of art appears as a three-dimensional structure, again making the observer question – what is reality and what is illusion.
LOVING THE WORLD
Immersed in the Tuscan countryside, Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany, plays home to Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto’s four Etruscan bronze sculptures from 18 May to 14 November 2022.
Standing by ancient trees around the estate’s expansive 4,200 acre grounds, the sculptures accentuate the intrinsic connection between this property and its surrounding land. Named “Accarezzare gli alberi (l’Etrusco)” meaning “caress the trees”, these have been conceived with the beautifully restored 10th century castle in mind, the grounds where Etruscan civilization first took root. As the birthplace of this historical society, this collaboration emphasises the importance of humankind’s impact on nature and the inherent need to protect it.
The hotel land is perfect for the exploration of nature; instilled with movement as hare, pheasant, and deer roam the fields; home to over 25 acres of organic vineyards; groves of olive trees; and hives of industrious bees. Scenic footpaths link the artist’s regal statues, inviting guests to uncover more of the fascinating history behind the Etruscan society. The abundance of life and nature plays a crucial role in the sculptures’ existence, as well as in the everyday life cycle of the hotel and its ecosystem.
COLOURING THE WORLD
Perched in the mountains of Taormina, with sweeping views of Mount Etna and beyond, Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina, welcomes Cameroonian artist Pascale Marthine Tayou who is colouring the world with two renewned installations from 25 May to 31
December
The artist reinstates “Les Routes du Paradis”, meaning the path of happiness, a coloured path from the hotel’s grand entrance, through six acres of property gardens to the magnificent 3rd century Greek Theatre, beckoning guests to discover the enchanted outdoor spaces. Dotted around the path are four crystal sculptures entitled
A MEETING OF THE MINDS
This inaugural partnership engages all the senses – from cooking at the Cipriani in Venice to delighting in the Florentine views at Villa San Michele, admiring the natural earthly beauties at Castello di Casole, or engaging in captivating vistas at Grand Hotel Timeo – Belmond seeks to create environments where visitors can enjoy art, culture, and nature; dismantling barriers; and opening their doors to all art-lovers alike.
