ME by Meliá Dubai continues its legacy as a hub for artistic innovation with the second edition of its Cultural Connection series this March, featuring a groundbreaking exhibition by acclaimed Brazilian artist Marcos Marín. Renowned for his mastery of optical and kinetic art, Marín’s captivating works will transform the hotel into a living canvas from 18th March to 20th April, inviting guests to experience art that challenges perception and redefines the boundaries of portraiture. A standout moment will be the unveiling of a special sculpture honouring the late Zaha Hadid on 31st March, marking the anniversary of her passing. This tribute merges Marín’s distinctive artistic vision with Hadid’s groundbreaking architectural legacy, celebrating her lasting impact on the world of design.
Marín’s work is recognised for its ability to manipulate movement, light, and perspective, drawing viewers into an immersive dialogue between art and human perception. This exhibition will feature over 60 pieces, guiding guests through an iconographic journey that bridges fine art, architecture, and cultural symbolism. As the only hotel fully designed by Hadid, ME by Meliá Dubai provides a fitting stage for Marín’s homage, with the sculpture taking pride of place in the atrium – a powerful reflection of Hadid’s enduring influence on global architecture.
More than a showcase of artistic mastery, this exhibition is a celebration of cultural storytelling, where portraits of Arab royalty stand alongside international icons, creating a dynamic conversation between regional heritage and global artistic influences. Marín’s work embodies the synergy between art, architecture, and identity, offering a compelling exploration of form, movement, and the transformative power of visual expression.
With over 30 official portraits of world leaders, royal families, and celebrities, Marín has established himself as a leading figure in contemporary portraiture and monumental art. His large-scale public sculptures have become cultural landmarks across Monaco, France, and Portugal, while his exhibitions have captivated audiences worldwide. Beyond his technical expertise, Marín is deeply committed to the social impact of art, using his platform to support philanthropic initiatives, including Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco and Fight Aids Monaco. His work is not only a visual spectacle but a testament to the role of art in fostering meaningful change.
For art lovers, collectors, and cultural enthusiasts, this exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience Marín’s distinctive style, where optical illusion meets historical iconography, and the boundaries between art, architecture, and identity dissolve in a mesmerising interplay of light and form.
