A Cultural Destination at the Southern Aegean Coast of Turkey
A Cultural Destination at the Southern Aegean Coast of Turkey
Bernar Venet and Refik Anadol at Maxx Royal Bodrum
The drive from Milas Airport to Bodrum, which is around 36 kilometers away, is already fascinating. Unique flora, embedded in a serene mountain landscape surrounded by crystal clear azure blue water: the Turkish Riviera at its best.
This is where the Maxx Royal Resort Bodrum opened its doors in May 2024.
Upon invitation of MAXX ROYAL BODRUM
a member of LEADING HOTELS OF THE WORLD
Shot on location in BODRUM, TURKEY
on 35 MILLIMETER FILM
Entering the resort grounds immediately takes your breath away. What a view. The glass and wood building at the entrance alone, which exclusively houses the lobby including a huge terrace, offers an incomparable view of the coast and the wide Aegean Sea. And this is just a small taste of what the 11.4 hectare estate has to offer. Designed by renowned Turkish architect Mahmut Anlar, the luxury beach destination is the epitome of jet set and iconic style. Arrival is not just limited to the traditional way – guests also have the option of taking a 15-minute helicopter ride from Milas Airport or a fancy yacht trip across the glittering sea to reach the property. But the luxurious treatment extends to all areas of the Maxx Royal Bodrum.
Scorpios, the well-known beach concept that first emerged on the Greek island of Mykonos, has opened its first outlet on the neighboring peninsula in collaboration with the resort. Culinary partners, like the iconic Parisian restaurant Caviar Kaspia, which opened in 1927, now offers its signature dishes also in Bodrum, including Traditional Norwegian Smoked Salmon and Caviar on Baked Potatoes under the Kaspia by the Sea idea. With a unique view of the peninsula’s shores, guests can enjoy fresh and creative dishes at Spago by globally recognized chef Wolfgang Puck as well as having an exclusive menu designed by Michelin-starred chef Alfredo Russo at ORO.
Along with the sophisticated and well thought-out interior concept of the hotel, art plays an important role at Maxx Royal Bodrum. While many hotels try to start a conversation with an artist initiative, what the resort has brought to life here sets a new standard. As soon as guests arrive in the lobby, they are greeted by a large-format media installation by Los Angeles-based AI pioneer Refik Anadol. In this work, the artist shows an artificially generated data painting that is constantly changing. The dots of different shades of blue and turquoise almost look like a reflection of the ocean and blue sky and thus fit perfectly into the contemporary aesthetics of the large space.
From digital to analog: In contrast to Anadol’s media work stands the monumental installation by Bernar Venet. The sculpture consists of two 21-metre-high structures facing each other, each with six oxidized metal arches at the entrance of the bay. A wonderful example of Venet’s handling and exploration of mathematical concepts, which captivates with its minimalist aesthetic, creating a dynamic and visual experience for the viewer. His largest work to date shapes light and shade according to the time of day. It not only welcomes guests but will most likely become a landmark for the region.
The hotel’s art initiative aims to transform the Maxx Royal Bodrum into a hub for contemporary art and to promote the cultural direction of the area. Two art galleries, created in partnership with the Bastos Lessel Gallery, will present a varied exhibition program of contemporary positions, which will also be open to non-hotel guests.
This residency program will kick off with the innovative Canadian artist Chloe Wise, whose diverse media works, consisting of painting, sculpture, video and installation, explore the history and examination of the portrait.
upon invitation of MAXX ROYAL BODRUM
shot on location in BODRUM, TURKEY
on 35 MILLIMETER FILM