NASSAU, Bahamas – (December 9, 2013) — Baha Mar names Bahamian artist John Cox as the Creative Arts Director for the $3.5 billion luxury resort fast rising in Nassau, The Bahamas.
In a unique step for a destination resort, Baha Mar has committed to the extensive use of Bahamian art as an inherent component of the guest experience. “As an art lover and collector, some of my favorite pieces are by Bahamian artists. They embody the characteristics which inspired the vision of Baha Mar – the colors, the culture and the warmth of the people of The Bahamas that I know; I want to share this creative experience with our guests,” said Sarkis Izmirlian, Baha Mar Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
As the Creative Arts Director, Cox will drive the creative experience at Baha Mar and oversee the resort’s Art Gallery, which will showcase the largest collection of Bahamian art in the country. Bahamian art, some of which will be produced in on-site artist studios, will also be featured in public spaces and in the guest rooms.
A preview of Cox’s artistry was offered Friday, December 6, during Art Basel Miami, where Baha Mar co-sponsored Art of The Party, an event hosted by Niche Media and leading Miami Beach publication Ocean Drive Magazine, whose VIP guest list consists of influential art collectors, curators and art media. Art of The Party exclusively exhibited artwork by Cox, including an installation from his progressive this is how much I love you series, which features an endless sequence of the phrase printed in high contrast on hundreds of yards of industrial canvas that will weave through the party supported by sculptures of wood and found objects.
Known for his contemporary aesthetic in mixed media and paintings, Cox brings a strong, modern voice to Bahamian art. In addition to working closely with the Baha Mar’s local art alliances – The D’Aguilar Art Foundation, The Dawn Davies Collection and the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, Cox’s experience as an internationally exhibited artist and chief curator of the NAGB will be an integral part of building collaborative efforts with the creative community.
Overlooking white sandy beach and pristine turquoise waters, the luxury lifestyle destination will offer more than 2,900 hotel rooms and residences across its refined complement of distinguished, international brands – Rosewood Hotels& Resorts®, Mondrian, Grand Hyatt, and Melia, all anchored by its impressive centerpiece, The Baha Mar Casino & Hotel.
World-class amenities include the 100,000 square foot casino, an 18-hole, 72-par Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, and ESPA at Baha Mar spa and more than a dozen stunning pools. The diverse amenities also include 50,000 square feet of high-end retail and shopping over 30 restaurants, bars and lounges.
“Baha Mar is changing how the world sees The Bahamas. We have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world but we also offer a destination experience that speaks to contemporary culture which is valuable to both business and leisure travellers,” remarked The Honorable Obediah Wilchcombe, Minister of Tourism for The Bahamas.
“Baha Mar is essentially a curator of meaningful experiences,” said Denise Godreau, Baha Mar Chief Marketing Officer. “Art is a universal language and allows us to redefine luxury in The Bahamas in an unexpected and authentic way.”
