BENESSE HOUSE:
The inland islands in the Seto Island Sea in Japan boast not only several amazing contemporary museums, but also many gorgeous sculptures scattered throughout the islands. The project is based on the theorem of how art and nature can coexist. On Naoshima, Tadao Ando designed the museums and the Benesse House opened as a hotel with each room with a sea view. There are several museums to check out- our favorites are the Chichu Art Museum, which is built entirely underground, and the Lee Ufan Museum, a museum devoted entirely to this acclaimed artist!
THE THIEF HOTEL:
While not exactly a warm destination, Oslo is always beautiful. The Thief Hotel opened in 2013 and is situated on the water’s edge. In the neighborhood of Tjuvholmen, it’s fitting that the hotel is called, “The Thief Hotel”, as this area was the city district once home to criminals and shady dealings. It’s definitely turned a corner, now Tjuholmen is a power centre for contemporary art and good city living. With its own curator, The Thief Hotel houses roughly 150 contemporary works “stolen” from the nearby Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art and local collector, Petter Stordalen,, to put on display.
Situated on a hill and connected to the Museum building by a monorail, The Benesse House’s “Oval” is only accessible to those staying overnight at the hotel. Only 6 rooms are available, so make sure to book early!
Image courtesy of: Benesse House Art Site
The Lee Ufan Museum was a collaboration between the artist and the famous architect, Tadao Ando. Pieces from the 1970’s through present day are displayed in the semi-underground structure.
Photo courtesy of: Benesse House Art Site
At the entrance to the hotel, Antony Gormley’s cast-iron figure lies as if in prayer.
Image courtesy of: Loyalty Traveller
The lobby boasts beautifully coordinated contemporary art pieces.
Image courtesy of: The Independent
