*rooftop café:* *Santoña Cruise Ferry, artist:* *Rubén Sánchez* *, photography:* *Klunderbie*

In today's highly competitive hospitality industry, distinguishing your brand from others is of paramount importance. One of the most potent ways of achieving this is through the integration of art. The right selection of artworks can redefine your brand image, impress guests, and foster an environment of luxury and sophistication. However, choosing these pieces is not always an easy task, and that's where the expertise of hospitality art consultants comes in.

What is a Hospitality Art Consultant?

A hospitality art consultant, while under the larger umbrella of art consultancy, specializes specifically in the unique context of the hospitality industry. This dynamic expert offers a wealth of knowledge beyond a comprehensive understanding of various art forms. Acting as a bridge between the world of art and your brand, the hospitality art consultant curates a collection that beautifully resonates with your business's identity and engages your target audience.

Art consultants are well-versed in different types of art, cultural contexts, and emerging trends, which allows them to recommend meaningful and relevant pieces. However, their role goes beyond being a mere curator. They also act as brand strategists, ensuring that the selected art aligns with your business's desired ambiance and values.

In addition to this, they manage the logistical aspects of acquiring and installing art, which includes negotiating with artists or galleries, coordinating transportation and installation, and liaising with interior designers and architects as necessary.

An art consultant also applies their understanding of how art influences emotions and behavior to design an environment that is visually stunning and enhances the overall guest experience. They transform your spaces into immersive, engaging, and unforgettable environments, adding to the unique value proposition of your hospitality business.

Having defined the role of a hospitality art consultant, let's now delve into the specific reasons why their expertise is a game-changer in the hospitality industry. Here are the 7 compelling reasons why engaging a hospitality art consultant can significantly elevate your brand and guest experience.

*atrium bar:* *Galicia Cruise Ferry, art & photography:* *Klunderbie*

1.The Power of First Impressions

Hospitality is all about creating experiences that last, and first impressions are critical to this process. The artwork on display in your establishment's lobby, rooms, or dining areas forms a significant part of that first impression. A carefully selected piece can evoke emotions and set the mood, impacting how guests perceive your establishment. Hospitality art consultants are skilled in identifying the kind of art that resonates with your brand's voice and clientele, thereby setting the stage for an unforgettable guest experience.

“As demonstrated by NINE dot ARTS Curator Denise Joseph in the recent webinar, “How Art Creates a Next-Level Experience for Hotel Guests,” arts-infused spaces can command higher rates, have longer bookings and leverage community engagement to draw a crowd. This can generate PR and lead to valuable earned media, meanwhile increasing exposure for the hotel’s featured artists.”
— Martha Weidmann, CEO and Co-Founder NINE dot ARTS

2. Crafting a Unique Identity

Each hospitality business has its unique identity—a distinct flavor that sets it apart from the competition. Art plays a crucial role in crafting and solidifying this identity. Whether it's a chic boutique hotel or a rustic countryside bed-and-breakfast, the artwork displayed can embody and express the establishment's personality. Art consultants for hospitality businesses specialize in aligning the chosen art with your brand's identity, ensuring that your space's aesthetic is a direct reflection of your unique business ethos.

3. Creating an Immersive Experience

In hospitality, merely providing a service is not enough. Today's customers seek immersive experiences that engage their senses. Art can serve as a powerful tool in creating such an environment. Imagine a hotel with a locally inspired mural that tells a story or a restaurant adorned with abstract sculptures that incite curiosity. These elements add another dimension to the customer's journey, making it memorable. An art consultant can help curate this immersive and engaging experience for your guests.

*project:* *C-Club Lounge, artist:* *Felipao* *, photography:* *Klunderbie*

4. Increasing Perceived Value

High-quality artwork can significantly boost your establishment's perceived value. An original painting or a striking sculpture signals luxury, sophistication, and attention to detail. Guests are likely to perceive your establishment as more exclusive and high-end, thus justifying premium pricing. Hospitality art consultants can guide you in acquiring pieces that elevate your establishment's perceived value.

“In fact, 91% of the business leaders we surveyed in our 2021 State of the Art Report believe it’s valuable when a project or space becomes known for a piece of artwork. And, over 70% say an original art collection in the lobby is one of the most buzz-worthy elements of a project.”
— "Why Art is Essential to Next-Level Hotel Experiences", Hospitality Net

5. Inspiring Social Media Shares

*interactive art space:* *Santoña Cruise Ferry, statue:* *Antonio Azzato* *based on the original* *Las Meninas* *painting by* *Velásquez* *from 1656, photography:* *Klunderbie*

In the age of Instagram, visual appeal has never been more important.

Unique, eye-catching artwork encourages guests to take photos and share their experiences on social media, providing free marketing for your business.

An art consultant with a keen eye for aesthetics can identify pieces that not only align with your brand but are also photogenic, increasing your establishment's online visibility.

6. Local Art and Community Connection

Featuring local art can create a deep connection with the community, offering guests a taste of the local culture and aesthetic. Additionally, it supports local artists and showcases their talent to a broad audience. Your art consultant can connect you with the local art scene, ensuring the artwork selected resonates with local tastes and further strengthens your community ties.

“Over 90% of respondents from our State of the Art Report agreed that including local art is an effective way to support the community, and that local artists specifically can help connect a brand vision to the local culture. This approach builds social and cultural capital and creates genuine community connections, meanwhile strengthening a hotel’s guest experience.”
— NINE dot ARTS

7. Art as an Investment

Art can also be a financial investment. The value of certain art pieces appreciates over time, potentially providing significant returns. An experienced art consultant can guide you on the financial aspects of acquiring art, helping you choose pieces that are not only beautiful but also hold potential as an investment.

*Santoña Cruise Ferry:* *Azul Restaurant, art & photography:* *Klunderbie*

In conclusion, engaging the services of hospitality art consultants can revolutionize your business, enhancing your brand image, creating memorable experiences, and even offering potential financial returns. They are a valuable asset for any hospitality business looking to elevate its aesthetics and provide a deeper, more engaging experience for its guests. Consider investing in an art consultant and witness the transformative power of art in your hospitality business!

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