The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas wants to showcase art and pop culture—from the moment guests pull into its parking garage. To that end, the newest hotel-resort on the Strip has commissioned, in association with the nonprofit Art Production Fund, four contemporary artists to create permanent murals and graffiti art in the resort’s parking garage.
"The gallery idea hasn't really worked. People don't think of Las Vegas as a city where you go to visit a museum or a gallery," Cosmopolitan C.E.O. John Unwin said in a statement. “I think in the past we've tried a bit too hard to be something that we're not. There's this perceptual barrier that unless you are an expert, galleries aren't for you. Art doesn't have to be something that you pay to go see."
During a reception honoring graffiti creator Retna (real name: Marquis Lewis), the Los Angeles-based artist produced two original works while guests watched; the garage art he'd completed earlier was also on display. To add to the L.A./street theme, Jose Andres’ on-property restaurant China Poblano catered the event.
The four artists are using a variety of materials, from spray paint to wheat paste, to create their commissions. Other artists whose work is featured are Shepard Fairey, Kenny Scharf, and Shinique Smith.
