Painting meets ballet

The glamorous vernissage took place in the presence of prima ballerina Hashimoto Kiyoka and Thai ambassador Vilawan Mangklatanakul.

Pictures of the announcement are in the media database: © Katharina Schiffl

Vienna (LCG) — The venerable lobby of the Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna shines in new splendour thanks to the vibrant paintings of renowned artist Leo Stopfer, also known as the "painter of ballet stars". The opening turned out to be an exclusive event, which was attended by prima ballerina Hashimoto Kiyoka and Thai ambassador Vilawan Mangklatanakul.

Marvel and purchase

The exhibition presents carefully selected paintings that focus on international ballet stars. Visitors and guests also have the opportunity to purchase the fascinating portraits on request.

"For me, these paintings are the 'pearl of my oeuvre'. It is an incredible honour to be able to portray great names such as Diana Vishneva, prima ballerina of the Mariinsky Theatre, and Olga Smirnova, star of the Dutch National Ballet," says the artist and honorary professor at the Amadeus Music and Arts Academy, Leo Stopfer.

On a first-name basis with the ballet stars

What is particularly remarkable is that Leo Stopfer is probably the only painter in the world for whom the ballet stars themselves modelled. Many of the paintings also bear the dancers' personal signatures, which makes the works of art particularly valuable and unique.

"Music and dance are present throughout our house. The exhibition fits in harmoniously with the hotel's design concept. The soul of the dancers comes to life in every stroke of Leo Stopfer's brush. This collection is a reflection of the connection between art and dance, reminding us that the beauty is in the detail and that the world of ballet is in full bloom in every painting by Leo Stopfer," says Florian Wille, General Manager of Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna.

The works will be on display in the Lobby Lounge & Bar, the centrepiece of the Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna, until 29 February 2024, offering guests the unique opportunity to experience the graceful beauty of the ballet world through the eyes of a master painter.

Further information at kempinski.com

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