March 2022…// Art lovers and those wanting to try their hand at something a little more creative during their vacation can enjoy immersive art classes at the beautiful island resort of Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia. As part of a newly launched offering, hotel guests can now benefit from the expertise of St. Lucian artist Naja Misaki Simoen, known in the art world as ‘Sakey.’ A prolific muralist, Sakey will teach guests how to embrace their own unique style and translate the beautiful St. Lucian landscape onto paper, and guests can then upload their creations into the hotel’s new virtual gallery.
In the complimentary art classes, which are held twice a week, guests will learn how to capture the natural structures and vibrant colours of St. Lucian heliconia, hummingbirds and the island’s majestic volcanic peaks. For those who want to further immerse themselves in the artistic experience, Sakey also offers private lessons, bookable through guests’ stay. With over 50 murals across the island depicting St. Lucian flora, fauna and the beauty of the natural landscape, Sakey’s latest work at Anse Chastanet is a 60-foot mural that celebrates the splendour of the island.
Born in St Lucia and having studied overseas, artist Sakey embraces the ‘plein air’ in his works and enjoys taking guests to idyllic locations on the island, including the Anse Mamin Estate to teach techniques for taking expansive, detailed landscapes and condensing them onto paper. Sakey’s artistic journey started with classical portraiture and to this day on 12th January each year he paints a self-portrait “for it is only in going within that you can reveal your true self” he says.
One of the Caribbean’s most panoramic resort hideaways, Anse Chastanet is the perfect inspiration for budding artists, nestled within a 600 acre tropical estate comprising lush greenery, soft white sand beaches, and crystal blue bays teeming with colourful fish and coral reefs. The 49 individually designed rooms are tucked in amongst the nature and designed to take advantage of the captivating scenery all around. Meanwhile inside, art takes centre stage with a 200-piece collection showcased throughout the hotel by owners Nick and Karolin Troubetzkoy, and a dedicated gallery with some of the finest Caribbean art. Artworks include pieces by Caribbean wood-carver Lawrence Deligney and pieces by European painters Claude Sandoz and Elvira Bach. Guests can also share their experiences and art from their stay at Anse Chastanet with the hotel’s virtual gallery.
The complimentary art classes are offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3.30 pm – 5.30pm.
Private art classes are available: 2-hour sessions are offered at USD 150 plus 10% service charge and 10% VAT (minimum charge, covers 2 persons maximum, additional person USD 75 plus VAT and service charge)
For more information, please visit https://ansechastanet.com/art-classes.html.
