conrad algarve art
Relief sculpture in the Louro Restaurant at Conrad Algarve

Art Collection of the Conrad Algarve

How does a world class luxury hotel complement its mesmerizing architecture and sophisticated interior design? With an impressive art collection that is not only a prominent feature for the guest experience, but also an enhancement to the overall aesthetic design.

According to General Manager Joachim Hartl, “at Conrad Algarve, art plays a significant role in our culture philosophy, creating a world of style which is both comfortable and luxurious. The artworks are a testimony to Algarvian culture, gastronomy and coastal produce.”

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London- and Algarve-based ArtCatto Gallery was charged with the enviable task of commissioning artwork for the resort. Gallery owner Gillian Catto explains, “The brief was to find artwork that reflected the skill and the passion of Portuguese craftsmanship. Each commissioned piece was tailor-made and specially designed to be in keeping with an organic look and natural feel of the interior design concept.”

Following is a look at some of the pieces on display at Conrad Algarve…

HAND GILDED MIRRORS
Prominently positioned in the Lago Lounge are two monumental hand-painted and silver leafed mirrors. Two create these works, the artist Diano first painted delicate flowers on the reverse of these large panes of glass. Five layers of silver leaf were then hand applied. This technique dating back to Roman times, is called verre églomisé, meaning gilded glass.

conrad algarve art guilded mirrors

conrad algarve art metal sardine sculptureSARDINES
At the entrance to Gusto by Heinz Beck gourmet restaurant is a hand-forged metal, interlocking, circular sculpture. Sardines are the subject-matter of choice; an ideal representation of fine Portuguese cuisine. The skill of the metal work can be seen in the subtle tonality of the scales.












conrad algarve art Laguiole gusto by heinz beck

FISH KNIVES

Stepping inside Gusto by Heinz Beck, another intriguing work captures your attention. It is another fish sculpture, indeed. Yet, this time, the work is created by using knives from famous French manufacturer Laguiole. Each knife is individually handcrafted and unique. The work is a precursor to the meal, in that each diner at Gusto by Heinz Beck is offered a selection of Laguiole knives to use with dinner.









RELIEF SCULPTURE

(Pictured at Top) This work in the Louro restaurant continues the base relief motif. Solid geometric shapes create a textured arrangement similar to styles found in Moorish architecture and inlays. The variations in whites provide a delicate contrast from flat and structural patterns.

STEEL COLLAGE

This lovely steel abstract piece can be found in the Conrad Spa. Hundreds of metal tags are arranged as a sculptural relief. The brown and beige palette mimics the color variations and layout of an ancient mosaic.
steel cut collage conrad algarve spa art collection


large terracotta urns, conrad algarve artVASES

Five monumental terracotta vases are hand-crafted, each with its own patina and markings. Placed in various areas of the hotel, they are reminiscent of early Moorish urns; yet their large scale and unique patterns are distinctively contemporary.














cut paper relief conrad algarve art collection PAPER CUT SCULPTURES

A light relief of delicate paper flowers provides a combined sense of power and sensitivity. Each element of the piece is exquisitely cut to resemble the raised petals of flora typical of the region. The work is then displayed within a Perspex box.












STEEL WORKS
Hanging steel sculptures adorn the walls of the conference center. Two panels of hand-forged steel filigree depict scene of fig tree branches. The works are oxidized in a controlled manner so that each leaf has a distinct rusty hue.
steel sculptures conrad algarve art

PAINTINGS
Abstract oil paintings are featured in the Louro Restaurant and throughout the hotel.  Many  resound with earthy warmth of gold leaf, red, orange and yellows, while others incorporate cool blues and greens, into the earthy hues and golds.
Conrad Algarve Art collection,

The above works are just a taste of the art in the Conrad Algarve collection.  These unique pieces were created for ArtCatto by a local collective called The Imaginary Beings.   The artists responsible where, Toin Adams, Carolina Maggio, Marco Cristovam, Mariana Diano, Jessica Dunne, Paula Watt, Gail Adams and Nuno Santiago.  To see the vast collection, take time to stroll around the hotel.  Works are found around each corner and down every hall.

To learn more about the resort and to make a reservation, visit the Conrad Algarve website.

Conrad Algarve
Estrada da Quinta do Lago
8135-106 Almancil
Central Algarve

Phone: +351 289 350 700
Guest Fax: +351-289-350705
Email: conradalgarve.reservations@conradhotels.com

Art Catto Gallery is based in Loulé and features the diverse works of many international artists.

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