Art Series Hotel Group is set to open its eighth art-inspired hotel in Melbourne this November.
Named after and inspired by Chinese Australian artist Zhong Chen, The Chen will be located in Whitehorse Towers, the tallest development outside of the Melbourne CBD in the emerging suburb of Box Hill.
“Whitehorse Towers has been one of our company’s greatest projects yet,” said Art Series Hotel Group Founder and CEO, Will Deague.
“We are essentially creating a micro city and cultural hub in what is an emerging suburb of Melbourne.
“To have an Art Series Hotel as part of the Whitehorse Towers development reflects the dynamism of the area and pays tribute to the cultural diversity Zhong Chen has been a part of and has documented for many years.
“We look forward to playing an important role in the area for many years to come,” he said.
Deague said the hotel would reflect and celebrate the ethnic diversity of the area, with Chen’s vibrant works celebrating his transcultural identity.
Chen made the move from China to Australia in 1989 at the age of 19. His bold art marries Western expressions with Chinese traditions in a loose and fun way using large colourful brushstrokes to create a flamboyant yet relaxed tone. He explores his mixed heritage portraying childhood memories and Chinese pop culture as his inspiration.
The Chen takes its design cues from Chen’s Kung Fu series, with a combination of originals and digital archival fine art editions featuring throughout the hotel. Chen notes another important artwork that will feature in the property Rooster, which is a particularly auspicious and lucky piece given Chen was born in the year of the Rooster (1969) and the hotel will open in the year of the Rooster (2017).
“I have lived and worked in Box Hill for nearly a decade,” Chen said. “I am passionate about my community and its emergence as a cultural powerhouse outside of Melbourne.
“To have a hotel of such significance, opening in the year of my birth sign is a true honour. I look forward to meeting guests and seeing how they interact with the hotel and my artworks. It is sure to be a surreal experience.”
Architects Peddle Thorp, will bring Chen’s work to life through a bold and vibrant design that pays homage to the gentle humour that pervades Chen’s work, setting a relaxed tone for the hotel. With 100 hotel rooms residing across five floors, the hotel will also feature a rooftop pool, gym, events centre, car park and four food and beverage outlets including Melbourne’s best Yum Cha.
The Chen will encapsulate all of the Art Series Hotel Group’s signature amenities including their renowned art tours, dedicated art channels, artist documentaries and art libraries. Art Series branded Smart Cars and Lekker bicycles will be available to explore the area and further afield.