THE GRAND TOUR
Journey through the art of Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
FOR ALL WHO SEEK THE SPECTACULAR
I am so excited to share our newest edition of ELEVATE with you. For those who have been reading along since we introduced our digital publication last year, this issue is a special one. We call it “The Grand Tour” as an homage to the 16th-century practice where young European aristocrats traveled to immerse themselves in art and culture. Through this lens, we invite you to commemorate the arrival of the esteemed Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
The art collection within this incredible space is thoughtfully curated with a diverse mix of local, regional, and international artists. With over 100 artists spanning 10 different countries, our holistic program honors Fontainebleau’s international legacy. Working with John Rawlins, Executive Vice President of Design at Fontainebleau Development, along with our design partners Rockwell Group, Avenue
Interior Design, and WESTAR Architectural Group, we were able to connect the brand ethos and the vibrant spirit of Las Vegas to create art moments unlike anything else in the world.
John Barry, our Las Vegas based Principal of KBAA, will guide you through just a few highlights of this extraordinary property—from abstract-expressionist-inspired artwork in the Casino to the dreamlike minimalist-inspired works in the Spa. Each space is designed to provide an alluring adventure unlike anything on the Vegas Strip.
Enjoy, Allison Barry
STEP INTO FONTAINEBLEAU
ONCE UPON A TIME IN 1954...
Inspired by an ornate palace in the French Countryside, the first Fontainebleau opened, bringing enduring luxury and character to Miami.
The finest art and design.
Fontainebleau Miami was known for modern architectural elements that broke all the rules. The signature “Stairway to Nowhere” allowed guests to make a grand entrance into the lobby from a small cloakroom. America’s first luxury resort.
Step into Fontainebleau
Historical photos courtesy of the Library of Congress
A playground for Hollywood.
From Frank Sinatra to James Bond to Scarface, Fontainebleau’s iconic space quickly became a cultural landmark for opulence, entertainment, and filmmaking.
After years of use and a restoration to its Miami grandeur, Fontainebleau is ready to expand the brand to Las Vegas.
The brand’s 70-year legacy extends to the desert with the 2023 winter opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the first luxury resort to debut on the Las Vegas Strip in over a decade.
Onward. From dawn to dream.
Or from dream to dawn, depending on who you ask. In the following pages, John Barry will guide you through some of the many artful spaces at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Hold onto your hats.
AWAKENING
I woke up to the sunlight peeking through my curtains, which I pulled open to see the early morning stir of the Las Vegas Strip. It was breathtaking, but I knew the real magic would be discovered inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas. As I thought about my day ahead, the art in the suite caught my eye. Parisian pops of pastel colors paired with calming abstract paintings and striking sculptures offered a bold yet peaceful experience. I got up and looked at my fun, colorful, warped reflection in “Solar Mirror” by Nicholas Biddle and thought to myself, “Should I crawl back into bed or get out and explore?”
“One of my favorite moments in the suites is the piece ‘Purple Fold’ by Jean Alexander Frater. Her work breaks the traditional canvas boundary with visible pleats, creating an interplay of dimension and illusion as the folded canvas and painted line work play off each other.”
- Chelsea Prater, Senior Art Advisor
[01]
AI Collection | Tim Tadder
[02] & [03]
Purple Fold | Jean Alexander Frater
Acrylic on folded canvas
[04]
Solar Mirror Series | Nicholas Biddle
Urethane, acrylic, and pigment
[02]
[04]
[03]
Large canvas prints by artists like Lynn Dunham and Jessica Poundstone draw you in.
DISCOVERY
After a cup of coffee, I was well on my way for the day. I headed down to the main floor and opened a grand door, entering into The Conference Center; an unexpected place to be inspired by art. The pieces here evoked a true sensory experience. Wandering through this futuristic and magnificent space, I marveled at Anna Sidi Yacoub’s “Emerald Pool” and gazed at the stunningly enormous piece “Blue Box” by Lynn Dunham. Staff were setting up for what looked like an exciting event, so I decided to continue on.
“The scale of this space is truly impressive. The commitment to details, the range of artists and mediums, it all comes together to create a cohesive and inspiring art collection that offers guests a rich and immersive experience.”
- Chelsea Herman, Art Advisor
[01]
[02]
[03]
STOP 3 – LAPIS SPA &
As I continued on, I walked past the sprawling Fitness Center, ignoring the thought that I should probably get a quick run in, and entered one of my favorite places in Fontainebleau—Lapis Spa & Wellness. This space leans on tranquil compositions, rhythmic movement, and soothing color palettes to calm the senses. Inspired by this environment, the artwork provides an elevated, dreamlike experience using minimalistic compositions and subtle textural elements. Time to succumb to the relaxation of body
“We had a wonderful time exploring artwork options to enhance and highlight the beauty of each moment in the spa. It was exciting and special to be able to work within such a unique and beautifully designed space.”
- Kajsa
Piatt,
Senior Art Advisor
Emerald Pool | Anna Sidi Yacoub Mixed media sculpture with aluminum, acrylic, plastic, oil, and color
Gradient Cloud | Jessica Poundstone
on canvas
Blue Box | Lynn Dunham
on canvas
Custom mirror by KBAA Colorful film applied to mirror
Limitless | Katie Alize Poured resin artwork on aluminum panel with gold finished edges
[04]
[05]
Lapis
Calming, abstract artworks that resemble flowing silk by Erin Bird.
BOLDNESS
What time is it? After jolting myself awake with a (literal) snow shower, I headed to the now-bustling casino floor. Sounds, lights, and colors beckoned me into the High Limit area where the serious players were at work. I’m not much of a gambler myself, but watching the dice roll, the cards shuffle, and the sighs of contemplation juxtaposed with billows of cheers made me consider joining in this time.
I looked around and noted the art here seemed to be rooted in the boundless spontaneity of the Abstract Expressionist movement. These vivid, lively compositions were anchored by structured Cubist geometries and subtle Bauhaus motifs. The resulting collection was both risky and refined, encapsulating the opposing art movements and frenetic energy of the mid-20th century. Was that Peter Arnell across the room? I considered interrupting him to say hello, but I was just so hungry…
“This immense scale of pieces in the High Limit area accentuates the grandeur of the property. It’s always exciting to work with artists on large commissions as it gives them the opportunity to truly flex their creative acumen.”
- Megan Enright, Art Advisor
[02]
[03]
[05]
[04]
[06]
[01]
Folded Females in Pink | Heidi Lanino [02] & [03]
Mixed Media Abstract on Canvas | William McLure [04]
Photography by Peter Arnell [05]
So The Day Begins I Heidi Lanino [06]
AlphaNum #9 | Rodrigue Semabia
Original acrylic painting on canvas
AMUSEMENT
Adventure called my name as I heard the sound of whooping and applause. I entered The Tavern. A big game was happening and the crowd was on the edge of their seats. They were tuned into panoramic screens as they lounged in plush leather booths. This sportsbook was one of the best I’ve ever seen. It balanced sophistication with down-to-earth pub fare and brews. Sprinkled between the glittering screens were artful moments that highlighted Fontainebleau Las Vegas’ athletic milestones. Including subtle nods to 1954, such as whimsical photographs, stylized installations, and vintage collectors’ items. The artwork evoked a sense of nostalgia, balanced by modern dynamism, and supplemented by a touch of glamor. Who were we rooting for again?
“The
freedom our artists
were given to
exhibit their creative skills and dedication to their works are reflected in each beautiful piece throughout the space.”
- Will
Terzian,
Project Manager
[01]
[03]
[02]
OPULENCE
I was starting to get tired, so I decided to make my way back to my room. As I walked down the hall, I heard the unmistakable sound of a jazz baseline. I ducked into what felt like a speakeasy—but based on the crowd it seems like I was the last one to hear about it. I walked through the rooms and admired all the bright and playful touches. Suddenly, I turned the corner and saw my dear friend John Rawlins. With such a perfect day in Fontainebleau Las Vegas, I had so many questions to ask its Executive Vice President of Design.
[01]
Death of St. Joseph Basketball | Kehinde Wiley [02]
America’s Pastime | Brooks Hazelbaker [03]
Gallery wall featuring memorable sports moments and autographed photography [04]
Untitled 4 | Jonathan Todryk Oil and pigment on canvas [05]
Center, Untitled | Love Berto
Left and Right, Untitled 8-20 | Sarah Stockstill [06] Chateau de Fontainebleau | Jose Duran
“Every piece in Nowhere lounge was custom commissioned and created specifically for this space in Fontainebleau. The vibrant and lively moments complement the space beautifully, reflecting the artists’ heartfelt dedication in each piece.”
- Charlotte Leonard, Art Coordinator
Acrylic on Canvas
[04]
[05]
[06]
CONNECTION
Vice President
A conversation with John Rawlins, Executive
of Fontainebleau Development
Q&A with John Rawlins [01]
Q&A with John Rawlins
I’ve had what has felt like a wonderful, yet never ending day at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Can you share a bit about how the vision for Fontainebleau was conceived and the role our team at Kevin Barry Art Advisory took to help you achieve that vision?
The vision for Fontainebleau Las Vegas is firmly rooted in the history and mid-century nostalgia of the iconic Fontainebleau Miami and its visionary architect, Morris Lapidus. We delved into the perceived mindset of Morris Lapidus and strove to imagine what he would conjure up for the Fontainebleau brand if he was still alive in this day and age. His bold yet fluid architectural gestures, memorable geometric patterns and his way of juxtaposing contrasting historic styles, all with the filter of high glamor were the key elements, paramount to our design process. In regard to art curation, I wanted much of the art to be evocative of mid-century, abstract-expressionism yet we felt it was important to have some show-stopper, site specific art installations which speak to present day forms of expression.
The KBAA team consisting of talented and visionary curators were certainly able to help realize this vision.
Describe the collaboration between Fontainebleau Development’s in-house design team and KBAA.
We focused on specific spaces and/or venues with individual KBAA curatorial teams. Myself and my team would provide a general idea of what we had in mind as far as a mood and/or spirit of the art we envisioned for any given area and in some cases we recommended specific artists as a general direction. Then the KBAA teams expanded upon these ideas and presented a wide array of options for each space/venue. Once myself and my team edited the options, KBAA would focus their efforts on the placement, scale, formatting, and framing details.
Can you describe the process of selecting art pieces with KBAA for the project? How did KBAA contribute to ensuring the art integrated with your design vision?
Perhaps I answered this above but to elaborate, the KBAA curatorial teams proved to have a vast knowledge of art and art history as well as their finger on the pulse of many artists and artisans who resonated with the spirit of the Fontainebleau brand. As a result, we had plenty of options to choose from.
What were some of the biggest needs or challenges in regards to the art program, and how did the collaboration with KBAA help overcome them?
No huge challenges of note but the budget for any given venue varied so we needed to stay within an allocated figure regardless of the quantity of art pieces… As a result, some areas needed extra attention in order to fit within the budget parameters while still providing the desired look and feel. KBAA was able to re-select as needed and/or find more affordable methods of production and/or framing.
[01]
Untitled 3 | Jonathan Todryk Oil and pigment on linen canvas
[02]
Untitled | Carrie Gillen
Stretched fabric, acrylic, plywood backing covered with a layer of stapled canvas.
Reflecting on the project, why do you think an art advisory is an important component of design/development?
Especially when dealing with a large property, the benefit of having a dedicated team responsible for all aspects of the art curatorial process and the often complicated logistics, combined with access to a plethora of talent that would otherwise be unknown, is invaluable!
Do you have a favorite art piece or area that KBAA curated? Why does it stand out to you?
Our “Nowhere” jazz lounge holds the most affection to me as far as the art is concerned. I love how it feels like the private home of an astute art-collector. It is layered and rich yet the art stands out in such a way that it adds to the narrative of the venue.
In what ways do you believe the curated art has enhanced the Fontainebleau Las Vegas brand as well as contributed to the overall design aesthetic of the vast property?
We are acutely aware that art plays a vital role in hospitality environments as it creates exclamation points within the often highly designed spaces and thus, generates human connection and evokes emotion. We believe these memorable/tangible experiences along with excellent service is what resonates the most with our guests, causing them to want to return again and again.
Can you identify any unique contributions or moments where KBAA’s expertise made a positive impact in the project’s outcome?
The overall seamless efforts on the parts of the KBAA team to accomplish the monumental scope of work was above and beyond what I would have imagined was possible.
What advice would you give other design professionals about working with art advisors on projects of this scale and caliber?
I would say do yourselves a favor and have an accomplished team such as KBAA to carry the weight of this daunting responsibility… The alternative would have been far beyond my limitations as the creative lead on a project such as this.
[02]
EXPLORATION
There’s art to explore on every level at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. We spoke with artists about their process creating such grand artwork.
ARTISTS FEATURE
SEBASTIAAN KNOT
“My medium is photography and light. This fundamental element of our existence that we experience every day is so magnificent. Not visible without material or space. Without light, we wouldn’t be.”
Sebastiaan Knot works and lives in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and has been a photographer since 1998. After a 30-year career in commercial photography, he transitioned to becoming a full-time artist. Knot has always been fascinated by light itself. While most photographers use light to reveal something, he decided to use subjects to reveal light, capturing it without altering, deleting, or adding anything to the image.
Sebastiaan has 19 pieces displayed throughout Fontainebleau Las Vegas. He hopes his work challenges and questions viewers’ perceptions, encouraging them to have experiences that lead to new discoveries. Knot aspires for people to truly stop and enjoy his art, as he believes that amazement is one of art’s fundamental functions.
Prints on Hahnemuhle Paper | Sebastiaan Knot
Top to bottom - Center, Blue Horizon, Orange Horizon, Blue Abyss
Sebastiaan uses his photography skillset to drive his art.
A peek into Sebastiaan’s studio.
SANNE TERWEIJ
“I currently work with reflective metals like copper and brass, exploring and expanding the oxidative properties of these materials. In a way, I have created my own form of Creative Chemistry! The metals shimmer and reflect with the changing light and perspective of the viewer, which highly fascinates me.”
With 14 years of experience as a special effects painter and surface designer in the film and hospitality industry, Sanne Terweij has developed a passion for exploring innovative materials and techniques through her art.
Sanne was thrilled to be commissioned for Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Her piece, “Oxidized Atmosphere,” is placed at the entrance of the Lapis Spa & Wellness. Inspired by the vastness and depths of the ocean, she treated hundreds of hand-cut pieces of copper and brass with various recipes (salts, acids, and pigments) to create different shades of blue and gold. These pieces are then juxtaposed to form the final composition. She noted to us that if you look closely, each piece is its own little universe.
Sanne places each tile in her artwork by hand.
Each individual piece tells a story.
“Oxidized Atmosphere” is located in the spa entry vestibule.
Artists Feature
RYAN KELLEY
“I typically work in metal wire and stone. The natural elements creating new unique relationships via my hands and vision is a treat I enjoy. I also work with steel rods that are hand bent and shaped with heat, a larger scale version of my famous wire.”
Ryan Kelley has always been an artist. For the past 12 years, he has been creating art to fuel both his soul and his livelihood. Although self-taught, Ryan has benefited from an incredible community of local creatives who have been valuable resources for him and his projects.
Ryan was honored to partner with the KBAA team again, this time for the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. He was tasked with creating custom metal words to be installed along a curved wall in the nail salon at Lapis Spa & Wellness. The cursive font and mix of powder-coated colors set a mood of relaxation and elegance. The process began with getting a custom font approved and then moved to production, involving heating, bending, welding, and grinding the metal words before the final powder coating and installation on site. The words spread along the curved wall elevate the space with dramatic shadows created by the lighting and word placement. Ryan hopes viewers take the time to read all the fun, nail polish colored words as they walk
The final piece “What’s in a Name” at Lapis Spa & Wellness.
Staging the art to see how it fits.
Welding each word by hand.
JULIAN LORBER
“I work with layering archival paper tape, acrylic paint mediums and air tools. When I started this particular work, I was observing how soot collected on architecture, cathedrals, and monuments, and how the light changed these darkened surfaces. I thought simply that seemed like an interesting way to paint. So I started making and sculpting my own surfaces and using air tools to create colorful artworks that utilized light in a very physical and illusory fashion.”
Julian Lorber has always had the drive to create ambitious artwork. His commissioned pieces for Fontainebleau Las Vegas were
based on a painting he had made titled “Rocks Blaze,” but as a series scaled up to a much larger size. The original piece had a geometric surface texture of diagonal lines and edges, and was painted with blues, bright yellows and coral pink. He wanted the new works to have an added landscape quality to them, more tonal sunset gradients using the original colors but with an added layer of bright, bold hand painted lines. He was so excited with the final project and hopes his paintings create a sense of uplifting hope and a desire to explore the feeling of vitality.
KATHERINE BOXALL
“I work in a variety of mediums including acrylic, spray paint, pastel and oil. These materials, influenced by urban and natural environments encountered while living and traveling, establish a vibrant palette that reflects my personal geographical narrative.”
Growing up in Ottawa, Canada, Katherine Boxall was passionate about drawing and painting from a young age through adolescence. She studied as a figurative painter, but over time she gradually loosened her lines and now works primarily in abstraction. She was commissioned to paint an eight by six-foot painting for Nowhere. Large paintings are her specialty, so the opportunity to make this major piece was a dream come true. Her final piece “Miel Cru”, pays homage to Fontainebleau’s French name and translates to “Royal Nectar”, combining her personal inspirations with references to the hotel’s regal history.
Hard work happening at Katherine’s art studio.
“Blaze” can be found in select suites.
NATALYA SEVASTYANOVA
“From a young age, I’ve always felt a deep connection with clay, as if I could sense its essence through my skin. It feels like my ancestors were potters, their hands also shaping this earthly material, and their knowledge flows through my spirit.”
Natalya Sevastyanova works mostly with porcelain, a material she truly adores for its unique character. It’s both stubborn and flexible, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. Once fired, it becomes incredibly durable while maintaining an elegant, delicate appearance. Each piece bears her fingerprint, making every creation one-of-a-kind and deeply personal.
Her pieces are in Lapis Spa & Wellness and showcase a wave design, symbolizing the relaxing natural flow and pleasure of nature. Inspired by the beauty of magic forests and sea creatures, these designs imbue the space with a serene, natural vibe, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the soothing ambiance of the spa.
The Raku horsehair firing process.
Pulling each porcelain piece from the kiln.
“ Submergence ” is located in Lapis Spa & Wellness.
INVITATION
Don’t you want to see it all for yourself?
ROAD TRIP TO VEGAS
As I send you off to explore Fontainebleau Las Vegas on your own, I wanted to offer one last gift. A playlist curated by my friends and colleagues at KBAA. Get in the car, turn it up, and start an adventure. And once you’re there, ask the bartender to make one of these drinks.
Cheers, John Barry
COCKTAIL RECIPE
Fontainebleau LasVegas
Special
Just kickback, relax, unwind and let this strong, but yummy, drink take you away.
Ingredients
1 ½ fl oz Cognac (Brandy)
1 ½ fl oz Anisette Liqueur
¾ fl oz Strucchi Dry Vermouth
How to Make
Stir all ingredients with ice and fine strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a star anise.
Drink and enjoy.
MOCKTAIL RECIPE
Faux 75
This lemony mocktail is perfect for anyone with a real zest for life.
Ingredients
1 fl oz Fresh Lemon Juice
1 fl oz Simple Syrup
4 fl oz Bitter Lemon Soda
How to Make
Shake the lemon juice and syrup with ice, then strain to a chilled tall glass or champagne flute. Top with the soda and garnish with a lemon peel. All flavor. No booze.
Photo courtesy of Kate Ireland from Peck of Pickles blog
Photo courtesy of Andrea Love from Eatnik blog
When Day is Done | Darla McKenna
We extend our sincere appreciation to the Fontainebleau Development team, John Rawlins, all of our art contributors, photographer Brandon Barre, and the dedicated efforts of our KBAA Team.