Alex Lanier is the latest talent to join the group’s Artist in Hotel Residence programme.
While art hotels are few and far between in Dubai, there is one address that shows how it’s done: 25hours Hotel One Central. Fusing art, design and hospitality next to the famed Museum of the Future, it has rightfully earned a reputation as the go-to destination for the city’s aesthetes, fuelling their creativity in a setting that features quirky found objects, a 26- metre ceiling mural, and locally inspired dioramas in each of its lifts. Now, further reflecting its commitment to supporting and promoting diverse forms of art, the property is gearing up to welcome Alex Lanier as part of its Artist in Hotel Residence programme.
Held in partnership with World Art Dubai, the initiative invites artists to stay at 25hours properties worldwide for a certain period, during which they create an art piece that becomes a permanent part of their collection. And this year, the local outpost has partnered with the annual contemporary art fair – which launched its own Artist in Residence initiative last year – to jointly host an artist residency. Lanier, who exhibited his work at the fair’s 2024 edition earlier this year, was chosen due to his impactful presence and unique identity, as well as his significant contribution to the art scene. This collaboration brings together a shared vision of supporting and nurturing artistic talent, creating a space where creativity can flourish.
With a boundary-defying portfolio that spans architecture, digital art, and concept design, the American artist is recognised for his depth and storytelling, and is set to leave a lasting imprint on the hotel’s inspiring environment. Over the month, Lanier is transforming the artist studio at the design-driven property into a hub of creativity, culminating in the creation of a piece titled “Where to Next?” that will be displayed above Nomad Day Bar in the lobby.
More than just a painting, the artist explains that it is a narrative resonating with the essence of life’s journey. The artwork captures the spirit of a nomadic family, representing those who live by exploring the world, collecting an intangible treasure trove of memories, connections and experiences along the way. And with global cultural diversity taking centre stage at the property, it’s no secret that this broader theme of nomadism echoes the spirit of 25hours Hotel One Central perfectly. Crafted with meticulous detail using a blend of pastel colours and a touch of pop art surrealism, “Where to Next?” will invite viewers into an imaginative and playful universe.
World Art Dubai returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 17 to 20 April 2025, when the search for a new Artist in Residence will begin. And in the meantime, Lanier will have the unique opportunity to immerse himself in a creative environment designed to inspire and encourage his artistic journey at a hospitality concept that continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing the region’s art community in the heart of Dubai.
DSCVR: Alex Lanier. Artist in Hotel Residence programme, 25hours Hotel One Central, Downtown Dubai, Dubai. @alexlanierart @25hourshoteldubai
