Male’, Maldives, 13 August 2024 – Patina Maldives, Fari Islands has unveiled its latest artistic masterpiece, “Life Energy,” a striking collection of ‘Living Paintings’ by acclaimed French-Iranian artist Sassan Behnam-Bakhtiar. The series, which began creation at the resort’s Fari Art Atelier earlier this year, was introduced to the public in July through an exclusive event celebrating the fusion of art, nature, and environmental consciousness.
The launch event took place at the Portico library, attracting notable figures including Sir Mo Farah, rapper Little Sims, and actress Kaya Scodelario. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of “Life,” a large-scale, site-specific artwork created in Sassan’s Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat atelier after his initial visit to the island. This piece, crafted using natural pigments from local minerals, flowers, and recycled materials, embodies the themes of energy and nature, reflecting Sassan’s dedication to sustainable art practices.
“Life Energy” now joins Patina Maldives’ distinguished art collection, which features works by renowned artists such as James Turrell and Hiroko Takeda. The series also includes a collection of miniature ‘Living Paintings,’ each measuring 20cm x 20cm. These small-scale works, made from mixed mediums and natural materials like ground shells and corals, are available for purchase and emphasize themes of environmental harmony and conscious living. Titles like “Energy in Nature” and “Soleil Couchant” evoke a deep connection with the island’s natural beauty.
The event also featured a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Suzy Sikorski from Christie’s Middle East. Patina Maldives General Manager Antonio Saponara, along with art collectors and patrons, engaged with Sassan on his creative process, the inspiration drawn from nature, and his commitment to sustainability. This dialogue underscored the critical balance between human advancement and ecological preservation.
Sassan Behnam-Bakhtiar remarked, “Life energy is essential for human well-being. By using natural and sustainably sourced materials, my art connects deeply with nature. To ensure a sustainable future, we must align our approach with the principles of harmony between humanity and the environment.”
The “Life Energy” series is the latest addition to Patina Maldives’ Pathways event series, aimed at fostering personal transformation through innovative art. With global acclaim for his work’s environmental focus, Sassan continues to inspire with his commitment to blending artistic expression with sustainability.
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands offers rates starting at USD 2,054 (approx. GBP 1,620) per night for a One Bedroom Pool Villa, including breakfast and guest benefits. For more details, visit Patina Hotels.
