Art is everywhere in the hotel world today. The growing popularity of incorporating art programming into hotel stays reflects a shift in traveler expectations. More guests, me included, are seeking immersive, culturally rich experiences.
“Travelers today are increasingly looking for more than just a comfortable bed; they want experiences that engage all their senses,” says Emily Walker, a luxury travel specialist at Wanderlust Concierge. “Art adds a layer of depth to the travel experience, making the hotel not just a place to stay, but a destination in itself.”
But this trend to make art a living part of the guest journey is nothing new to luxury hotel brand Dorchester Collections, whose properties blend art and hospitality to connect guests to their respective locales’ artistic heritage.
The newest example of this can be found at their two US hotels, The Beverly Hills Hotel and Hotel Bel-Air– both recently appointed art curator Lily Ackerman in partnership with LA’s CURA Art to curate six art exhibitions across both properties.
I spoke with Ackerman to understand how art can enhance guests’ stays and leave them with a greater understanding of the city’s cultural landscape.
What themes inspired you the most when conceptualizing exhibitions for The Beverly Hills Hotel and Hotel Bel-Air?
What was so exciting about conceptualising the exhibitions and curatorial themes for the hotels was how distinctly different they felt to us. At the Beverly Hills Hotel, we were inspired by its vibrant creative legacy and cultural significance. The programming celebrates the city’s creativity and artistic diversity, reflecting the dynamism of LA’s creative community and its ever-evolving energy.
At Hotel Bel-Air, we were influenced by the harmonious surroundings, the contemplative nature of its serene landscape, and the sophistication of its setting. We developed the curatorial programme around these themes.
Do you prefer to work with established artists, or do you also look for emerging talent?
A combination of both. We believe in creating a nuanced narrative that offers guests fresh perspectives while showcasing established artists.
Discovering and championing emerging artists, bringing fresh ideas and innovation into the conversation, and providing those artists with the opportunity to exhibit their work creates a unique thrill and energy. At the same time, working with renowned artists whose work is well known creates a wonderful sense of depth. By curating a thoughtful balance, we ensure a dynamic and engaging experience that resonates with a wide audience.
How do you incorporate local culture or regional artists into your exhibitions, especially within the context of a hotel setting?
This was central to the programming at both hotels, working with regional artists and galleries to truly encapsulate Los Angeles and California. We focussed on a range of mediums, engaging with local galleries, artists, and perspectives to present a broad and dynamic range of work.
Our goal is to ensure that each exhibition feels deeply connected to its surroundings, making it relevant to the cultural and artistic landscape of the region. We offer guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the creative scene of the city.
How do the hotel’s design, location, and atmosphere influence your curatorial decisions?
The hotel is always the starting point for curatorial decisions and shapes everything from the selection of works to their presentation. Our intention is to delight guests and offer new insights, ensuring that the art resonates with its surroundings while also providing something unexpected.
There are also practical considerations; each piece is placed with intention, considering how it engages with the hotel’s architecture, interiors, and guest experience. Additionally, we think about what else is happening at the hotel, ensuring the art program enhances the broader atmosphere.
What role do you believe art plays in creating a memorable experience for hotel guests and elevating their stay?
Art has the power to transport, delight, and enhance a guest’s stay. Whether through an authentic interaction with a local artist or the thrill of discovering something new, art creates layers of experience that make a visit truly special.
For design-focused guests, it offers an opportunity to meaningfully engage with creativity—whether that’s through encountering an unexpected piece, gaining insight into an artist’s process, or simply taking a moment to pause! Art becomes a journey of discovery, enriching the atmosphere and deepening the connection between the guest, the artist, and, ultimately, the hotel itself.