Latest news with #KristelBechara
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
08-06-2025
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
Calling All Artists: Make The InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort Your Muse
How an artist's retreat allows nature's true beauty to surface at Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort When you fall in love with a destination, there is something special in then sharing that experience with someone else – as you get a chance to witness the magic through their eyes all over again. I've been fortunate to visit the Maldives many times, but never in the company of an artist. This is something InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort in Raa Atoll is exploring with its Artist in Residence series as a way to build strong cross-cultural connections with the Middle East, whilst inviting guests to explore the paradisiacal archipelago through the eyes of an artist. Recently, Dubai-based Lebanese artist Kristel Bechara spent a week on the island creating a painting inspired by the island's natural beauty, its wildlife and ongoing conservation efforts. Her piece, entitled The Silent Dance, captures the incredible magnetism of the Maldives' marine life as a chromatic Manta ray gliding through a monochrome ocean. Joining Kristel for art workshops and exclusive live art classes where we unleashed our own creative instincts on canvas, allowed an entirely new perception of the Maldives to take shape. While the islands are, by default, undeniably appealing, when you're looking to put pencil to paper you notice things on a more acute level. Not just the blue of the sea, but the exact moment one hue bleeds into the next; how each palm frond moves singularly in the breeze creating light and shadow play; how the sun alters the entire character of the island depending on where it sits in the sky. And through this, a new interpretation of the same place. An artist's impression where the Maldives is the muse. Naturally, a beautiful backdrop lends itself to artistic expression and InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort doubles down on agrarian allure. Five-star, yes, but much more raw and organic in its approach to luxury. The island is smaller than many, but all the better for it. Buggies are rendered almost obsolete, as bikes and walkways take you everywhere you'll need to go. Namely to the villas, that are either overwater or beachfront, all with private pools. Designed by Avalon Collective, the interiors looked to the 'musafir' (Arabic for traveller) for inspiration, with modern, open- plan interpretations of a nomadic free-spirit, where the space is left open, absent of internal walls to convey a true sense of freedom. Nature is all around: from the reef sharks that swim in the shallow waters and the kaleidoscopic house reef to the towering greenery that envelops the island. Climb The Lighthouse at dusk or dawn for the best views of the island. Make a night of it too at its restaurant, with grilled artichokes, local fish and seafood paella served over the sea. Or, grab a table by the water at Fish Market for dinner under the stars. Manta ray and dolphin-watching excursions should almost be mandatory they are so special. Nothing on earth beats seeing these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat – silently dancing, wild and free.
Web Release
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
InterContinental Maldives Unveils an Evocative New Artwork 'The Silent Dance' by Kristel Bechara
Web Release Selection Lifestyle By Editor_wr Last updated Apr 28, 2025 Art and culture have intertwined in breathtaking fashion once again at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort with the unveiling of 'The Silent Dance', an evocative new painting created during the exclusive Eid artist residency of award-winning Middle Eastern artist Kristel Bechara. Drawing on the island's conservation work and natural beauty, the painting captures the harmony of marine life through the graceful form of manta rays, positioning the resort as a beacon for meaningful cultural collaboration and artistic expression in the Maldives. Kristel Bechara, known for her signature fusion of vivid patterns and expressive colours against monochromatic backdrops, recently brought her unique aesthetic to the resort during a six-day residency from April 5th to 10th. Beginning the work in her Dubai studio, Kristel completed the final brushstrokes of 'The Silent Dance' while immersed in the island's serene surroundings. Guests had the opportunity to engage with the artist through live sessions and interactive workshops, gaining first-hand insight into her creative process and the environmental message behind the artwork. 'The Silent Dance' is a captivating homage to the fluid beauty of manta rays, creatures that glide through the ocean in silence and symmetry. At the heart of the canvas, three manta rays float in a circular motion above a greyscale coral reef, their wings adorned with intricate, vibrant detailing. The composition mirrors Henri Matisse's famed 'The Dance', replacing human figures with marine life in a rhythmic celebration of movement, freedom, and continuity. This reinterpretation not only showcases Kristel's rich visual language but also speaks to the quiet, powerful interconnectedness of life beneath the waves. By contrasting the colourful mantas with the starkness of a monochrome reef, the piece brings attention to the fragility of marine ecosystems. It reflects the delicate balance between nature's vibrancy and the environmental challenges facing the oceans today. Through 'The Silent Dance', viewers are invited into a meditative moment, a celebration of the underwater world and a call to action to protect it. The unveiling of 'The Silent Dance' further cements InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort as a hub for immersive, artistic encounters that transcend borders. The successful Eid residency with Kristel Bechara not only strengthened cultural ties between the Maldives and the UAE but also created a platform where art becomes a medium for storytelling, sustainability, and shared experience. Beyond its growing role in the cultural landscape, the resort continues to lead in sustainable luxury. Nestled on the edge of the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the property is committed to preserving the natural world it calls home. Through its long-standing partnership with The Manta Trust, the resort supports essential research into manta behaviour and habitat, using its proximity to a juvenile manta feeding ground to offer guests rare educational encounters with these majestic creatures. InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort's collaboration with Kristel Bechara is a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of our oceans. As the resort continues to host artists, thinkers, and environmental advocates, it reaffirms its vision as a destination where conservation meets creativity and where every guest leaves inspired by both the land and the sea. Comments are closed.
Web Release
17-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
Experience Eid Al-Fitr in a True Maldivian Style at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
By Editor_wr On Mar 17, 2025 Eid Al-Fitr brings a sense of joy and renewal, making it the perfect time to celebrate new beginnings with loved ones at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort. This private island paradise, home to a stunning manta ray sanctuary and uninterrupted ocean views, invites guests to embrace the spirit of Eid with exclusive experiences and bespoke celebrations designed to elevate every moment. Celebrate Eid Al-Fitr with a Maldivian twist as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere with live entertainment, followed by mouthwatering Arabian delicacies. The festivities begin this March 31st with a Maali Parade featuring a mesmerising display of costumed performers, rhythmic drumming, and energetic dancing, setting the tone for a memorable evening under the stars. Once guests are truly in the celebratory spirit, the festivities continue with a decadent Arabian Beach BBQ at Café Umi Beach , brimming with succulent meats, savoury delights, and tempting desserts. Creative Workshops Dubai-based Lebanese artist Kristel Bechara, renowned as the first Middle Eastern artist to launch paintings through blockchain, brings her distinctive style to this tropical retreat with an exclusive five-day residency. Known for bold contrasts, her artworks feature monochromatic backgrounds infused with vibrant patterns and colours, exploring themes of empowerment, femininity, and individuality. Internationally collected, her innovative blend of traditional and digital techniques offers a contemporary edge that resonates with modern art enthusiasts. Guests can take part in a complimentary workshop led by the artist, gaining insight into her distinctive style and creative process. Inspired by the resort and its conservation efforts, Kristel will begin her latest piece in her Dubai studio before bringing it to life on the island, creating a dynamic dialogue between the two destinations. Further, guests can master the art of resin with Anastasia Medvedeva , who is celebrated for her ability to capture the ocean's beauty through epoxy resin. From shimmering jewellery to striking, frameable creations, her immersive workshops offer the perfect chance to explore your creativity and take home a unique keepsake from your Eid getaway. Destination Dining and Endless Entertainment During their visit, guests and their loved ones can gather around the table for a feast of flavours by the idyllic Maldivian coastline, creating an unforgettable experience. Make your way to the picturesque Lighthouse Beach for an intimate private dining experience, with a dedicated waiter and chef catering to your every need. Guests can also expect a blend of Arabic traditions with a Maldivian twist with everything from talented belly dancers and rhythmic Boduberu drummers to a hypnotic display of twirling Tanoura dancers. Additionally, guests can soak up the celebratory atmosphere with the electrifying beats of the resort's resident DJ. For the Little Ones For the little ones, Planet Trekkers Kids Club offers a world of adventure. The spacious indoor area features a cosy library and an arts & crafts corner, while outside, little explorers can enjoy a splash pool, a lush garden, and a pirate ship-inspired climbing frame. Throughout the festive season, young guests can take part in magical activities like Eid card making, resin art workshops, palm leaf weaving, and the lively Eid Maali Parade. Wellness The award-winning AVI Spa presents a soothing overwater sanctuary, perfect for helping guests unlock their inner glow this Eid. Reawaken your senses with an Abhyanga Massage, where warm herbal oils enhance circulation and refresh your glow with an Eminence Facial, combining crystal rolling and acupressure for radiant skin. Exclusively for Eid, immerse yourself in a sound healing session with certified Yoga and Fitness Instructor Seema Rana. Allow the stresses of every day to melt away with a 60-minute Tension Soother Cupping Therapy, offering a harmonious blend of therapeutic cupping massage and healing modalities tailored for every guest. For reservations and more information, please visit or email [email protected] . Comments are closed.
