The Conrad Hotel is one of Indianapolis’ swankiest spots. Its 23-story building is located at one of the most prominent intersections downtown (Washington and Illinois streets) and offers a rejuvenating wellness center, a luxury spa and salon as well as two restaurants. To add to its luxurious reputation, the Conrad and ModernMasters of Fine Art & Brokerage LLC are partnering to offer guests as well as the community an opportunity to view some of the finest artworks in the world.
A Fine Art Experience at the Conrad will feature works by world-renowned artists that will be on display in the hotel’s public spaces.
“Having the opportunity to provide an art experience of this caliber to our many local, regional, national and international guests is truly game changing,” said Greg Tinsley, Conrad Indianapolis general manager.
Currently on display in the hotel’s lobby are three five-foot tall diamond dust portraits depicting Muhammed Ali, Geronimo and Marilyn Monroe created by artist, photographer and former MTV videographer Russell Young. Young, who says he finds inspiration for his pieces in the media and the American culture, also has his artwork in the collection of public figures such as hip-hop artist Kanye West, actress Jennifer Aniston and President Barack Obama.
“My work is sort of a soundtrack to my life, loves, experiences and influences,” he said. “My method of working is to search, destroy and create.”
Also on display is Andy Warhol’s rare hand signed work called “Untitled 12,” which contains numerous layers of screen printing that show a collage of some of his most famous and iconic images. The piece is highlighted by hand-signed etchings by artist Henry Moore from Moore’s series of works “Mother and Child.”
In addition to the great works of Warhol, the Conrad lobby also has on display two hand-signed works from Pablo Picasso’s most celebrated etchings “Suite Vollard.”
What makes this work even more special is that one of the etchings, “La Bonne Dans L’Atelier de Sculpture,” which was created in 1933 is registered with the estate of Picasso. According to Maddy Barnas, spokesperson for the Conrad, all artwork is hung with security hangers.
“It’s virtually impossible to just take it off the wall,” she said.
Also, available for viewing and purchase at the end of October will be fine art depicting Marilyn Monroe created by Warhol and Young, along with fine art photography by Bert Stern and William John Kennedy. For an entry fee of $30, guests will be offered light fare, desserts and a selection of mimosas.
“We have taken great strides to ensure many events will be open to our community on a complimentary basis,” said Tinsley. “Leading and working alongside our great team in an environment that features the likes of masters such as Picasso, Sir Henry Moore and Warhol just to name is few, is beyond cool.”
