Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga unveils the "Romance between Ballet and Art by Leo Stopfer" Exhibition

24.01.2024 21:05 | Latvia

Photo: Grand Hotel Kempinski

Author: Grand Hotel Kempinski
Source: kempinski.com

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga is delighted to announce the Grand opening of the highly anticipated art exhibition "Romance between Ballet and Art by Leo Stopfer," which unfolded on 23 January 2024. This captivating event invited art enthusiasts and cultural connoisseurs to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of acclaimed „Painter of the Ballet-Stars“ Leo Stopfer.

In partnership with the celebrated Austrian artist Leo Stopfer, on 23 January 2024, Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga proudly unveiled an exhibition where showcased art delves into the deep connection between celebrated ballerinas and the expressive world of paint.

The showcase took place in the hotel's lobby lounge, creating a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere for guests. The exhibition commenced with a breathtaking performance by ballerinas from “National Arts High School" Riga Ballet School graduation course students, gracefully interpreting the enchanting melody of "Enchanted Princess." Their performance left the audience awe-inspired, setting a remarkable tone for the evening.

Leo Stopfer, celebrated globally for his exquisite portrayal of ballet stars, places the aesthetics and grace of classical ballet, as well as the plasticity of the human form, at the forefront of his artistic vision. His unique approach breathes life into the inherent beauty and grace of the art of ballet.

Fascinated by the beauty of classical dance, he made ballet one of the main motifs of his art, cooperating with many outstanding dancers for many years. His models include prominent figures from the world baller scene, such as Italian dancer Alessandra Ferri (a former

Principal of The Royal Ballet), Evgenia Obraztsova (Bolshoi Theatre), Olga Smirnova (The Dutch National Ballet), Vladimir Malakhov (State Ballet of Berlin), Maria Abashova (Ballet Theatre of Boris Eifman), Maria Yakovleva (Vienna State Ballet), Julie Kent (ABT New York) and others who have graced Leo Stopfer's canvases.

This exclusive exhibition showcases his works, created in collaboration with these ballet luminaries, providing a rare glimpse into the intimate world of backstage and studios across renowned theatres and opera houses in Paris, London, Vienna, Monaco, Berlin, and Moscow.

It is also noteworthy that Leo Stopfer was the first artist to receive the honour of being invited by the KLIMT VILLA in 2017 to work in the original studio where the great master Klimt lived and worked. The result of this work was dozens of drawings and a large number of women’s portraits united under the title “meine Musen / my muses”. This series of works was presented at the personal exhibition of Leo Stopfer in the KLIMT VILLA Vienna in May 2018.

The showcased paintings, capturing Leo Stopfer's extraordinary vision, will be available for purchase at the Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga until the end of August 2024. This unique opportunity allows art enthusiasts to bring a piece of Leo Stopfer's artistry into their own collections.

About Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga: With the famous Latvian National Opera House by its side and the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at its feet, the hotel presents a whole new level of comfort and elegance to both city guests and locals.

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga features 141 first-class rooms and suites, 23 Kempinski residences, two restaurants and one bar, six spacious meeting rooms, including the Grand Ballroom, and a world-class Kempinski The Spa. Beautiful views of the capital, exquisite service, and a rich cultural experience await guests from all over the world.

About Kempinski: Created in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. Kempinski’s rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Today, the Kempinski Group operates 82 hotels and residences in 36 countries and currently has more than 26 prestigious projects under development around the globe. Each five-star hotel reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage; each is imbued with the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location. The portfolio comprises historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts, and prestigious residences. Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. www.kempinski.com • www.gha.com