Hilton Labriz re-opens local art gallery on Silhouette Island
On
Friday, 19 April, Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, Didier
Dogley and General Manager of Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa André Borg opened
the ‘Labriz Art Gallery’ on Silhouette Island.
The ceremony was held on the
hotel’s property and attended by hotel guests and local artists who feature at
the exhibition. Project consultant Monsieur Richard Touboul coulnd’t attend the
event, but played a big part setting up the exhibition and is responsible for
the creative concept. He was thanked by
the General Manager during the speech. Another great supporter of the project
and art ambassador of Hilton Labriz is the local artist Nigel Henri “I have
been here for a year- and-a-half working around projects artistically. Hilton
is the first five-star hotel that has approached local artists to combine
culture and the artistic side.”
In
2017 the well known Seychellois artist had brought a group of talented local
painters to the island to decorate the walls inside the building which became
the biggest mural in the Seychelles. Now the artists have extended the painting
which reflects Seychelles colorful nature and vibrant culture from the
staircase into the gallery on the upper floor. The round wooden room is a “dedicated space to local artists to exhibit
their work” Mr Borg explains in his opening speech and “since then, it has
grown further, thanks to the dedication of Nigel Henri who has done a lot of
work with us.” Not only has Henri successfully launched weekly painting
sessions for guests, and arts and crafts courses for children, he also
initiated traditional dancing classes lead by local full-time
artist, Angelique Adrienne.
“It’s a nice programme which takes place from Monday to Sunday. Every day there
is something different to keep clients busy,” said Henri. 
Besides
showcasing pieces from different Seychellois artists which can also be
purchased, the upper section also hosts an exhibition about the history of the
Hilton. The hotel brand will celebrate its 100th anniversary on 31 May and the
gallery displays an overview of the achievements and historical milestones the
chain has celebrated over the last century. A new in-house theater, the
“Conrad’s Cinema” shows a documentary about the hotel’s founder Conrad Hilton
as well as family movies and environmental films throughout the day for
everyone who is seeking some indoor relaxation or wants to learn more.
“It’s
always good to be on Silhouette as it gives me time to relax and recharge my
batteries. When we speak of tourism, we always speak of the nature of
Seychelles, especially on Silhouette which is incredible.” Minister Dogley
says. “Whether it’s architecture, food or art, you will find things of
incredible interest. I am happy that Nigel is here and also Angelique. I am
pleased that Hilton has given them the platform to showcase the work they have
been doing and I hope others will join in future.”
