German photography has always situated itself at the cutting edge of the world’s art scene, not only for its state-of-the-art innovations in image-making technology, but for its gritty, confrontational subject matter. From edgy captures behind the Berlin Wall to provocative social commentaries, the genre is as provocative as it is visionary. Our hotels in Berlin and Frankfurt are patrons of the art. We’ve partnered with two exemplary local photographers, Kiki Kausch and Daniel Biskup, to showcase Germany’s finest contemporary photography within our properties.
At Villa Kennedy near the banks of the Main, guests are invited to peruse award-winning fine art photographer Kiki Kausch’s Merkel, Power and Models until 31st July 2020. Best-known for her portraits, which reflect upon pressing social issues, Kiki shies from no subject matter. This selection of 12 images probes the relationship between German Chancellor Angela Merkel and the world of high fashion. Alongside, visitors are invited to admire a range of Kiki’s iconic portraits, including that of A380 pilot Aisha Al Mansouri applying lipstick in the cockpit and of Kai Diekmann in an empty office on his last day at publisher Axel Springer. Admission is complimentary for guests and visitors.
Meanwhile, in Berlin, Hotel de Rome’s grand lobby, formerly that of the Dresden Bank, serves as an elegant backdrop to a very different display, running until 20th May 2020. Commemorating the one-year anniversary of Karl Lagerfeld’s death, the exhibition features a handpicked selection of portraits of the fashion icon, snapped by pioneering local photographer Daniel Biskup. Shot in 2002, these striking images offer an intimate insight into Lagerfeld’s personal connection with the German capital. These are not images of Lagerfeld at work; rather they capture Lagerfeld the Berliner, in subway stations, garages, telephone boxes and under the atmospheric glow of streetlamps. Hotel de Rome was one of Lagerfeld’s favourite Berlin residences, and it’s easy to see why. Aside from its historic grandeur, the landmark hotel houses a permanent collection of 650 artworks and showcases frequent exhibitions, establishing itself as the epicentre of the city’s cultural scene.
See these extraordinary exhibitions through a new lens with a visit to Hotel de Rome or Villa Kennedy.
To book Hotel de Rome, email reservations.derome@roccofortehotels.com or call +49 30 460 609 1430.
To book Villa Kennedy, email reservations.villakennedy@roccofortehotels.com or call +49 69 717 12 1430.
The blooms of Munich’s Old Botanical Garden fill the city air with a sweet aroma. At the edge of this green lung sits The Charles Hotel, whose recently refreshed rooms capture the garden’s essence. Olga Polizzi, Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, takes us through the finer details.
Paris is always a good idea. Except, perhaps, when it’s hosting the Olympic Summer Games, and the usual tourist throng looks set to multiply almost prohibitively. Of course, the Games are exciting, but if wading through crowds feels like a marathon effort, try a cultural relay around one of these stunning European cities instead.
As the gentle glow of each ornate chandelier begins to dim, a hush descends upon the audience before an all-consuming world of tragedy and triumph unfolds. Both exhilarating and deeply moving, a night at the opera has the distinct power to evoke emotion, while offering a unique insight into a perhaps unfamiliar city.
Journey through Europe’s symphony of unmissable opera houses, each steeped in history and grandeur.
