Wellness Spa at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay , explained how his facility strategically used colors that fit into the property ’ s landscape , which is set on a lush hillside overlooking majestic Hanalei Bay on Kaua`i . “ We incorporate earth tones throughout the property ,” Erlich noted . “ With the exception of whatever flowers we have around the property , bright fancy colors are not used in the spa . Color and tone are what make the art .”
Hittleman shared insights about purposeful use of color . “ At Canyon Ranch Tucson , the locker rooms may include the serenity of blues and water ,” she explained . “ For the women ’ s locker rooms , there are bright
colors and big images that connect with women . In contrast , the men ’ s locker rooms may highlight images of saguaro cactus and Sabino Canyon .”
A chiseled glass orb by Henry Richardson adorns the Miraval ' s Tucson grounds .
The theme or subject matter of the art on your spa walls may vary depending on your location or your overall aesthetic . Some spa designers may choose to incorporate art that highlights location — such as mountains , desert , ocean — versus those who select more of a visual wellness theme that promotes serenity . Artistic styles from realistic watercolor landscapes or flower photography inspire a sense of peace and calm . Abstract alcohol ink or acrylic paintings spark the imagination and instill a sense of joy and wonder .
“ Big Sur has a reputation as an artists ’ hangout with Beatnik and Bohemian influences represented in the art displayed at the Post Ranch Inn ,” shared the spa ’ s director , Monika Jalovec .“ In addition , much of the artwork on display focuses on landscapes around Big Sur , especially condors , owls and falcons , related to the local falconry program .”
Both Canyon Ranch and Miraval celebrate their Arizona settings in their displayed artwork .“ Located in Tucson , we choose art that embraces our location , but we also have more universal imagery , for example , photos of the moon ,” said Hittleman .“ You ’ ll find art that not only connects with the southwest , but with the mind , body and spirit as well . We also have sculptures around the property that resonate with our guests .”
Stebbings sees the connection between nature ’ s splendor and the artwork displayed in his spa .“ The design of Miraval Arizona ’ s awardwinning Life in Balance Spa is a sacred space of peace , tranquility and calm , creating a safe and supportive environment for self-reflection ,” he explained . “ The artwork inside the spa reflects the natural beauty , organic elements and intentionality that is woven through each spa experience . The spa showcases a curated collection of paintings , sculptures and other pieces that reflect a sense of place .”
Whether it is a beautiful painting , sculpture , photograph or mural , consider the benefits of displaying art in your spa . Doing so does more than create a welcoming aesthetic , it relaxes your guests and invites them into a warm , hospitable and relaxing environment . n
RESOURCES :
https :// acrm . org / rehabilitation-medicine / how-the-brain-is-affected-by-art / https :// www . argusleader . com / story / news / brandon / 2021 / 05 / 14 / healing-power-art / 5091871001 / https :// www . health . harvard . edu / mental-health / the-healing-power-of-art https :// www . mic . com / articles / 106504 / science-shows-that-art-is-having-fantastic-effects-on-our-brains-and-bodieshttps :// yourlinenservice . com / create-a-relaxing-spa-atmosphere-in-8-simple-steps / https :// repaintnow . com / paint-colors-for-a-salon-or-spa / https :// us . ukessays . com / essays / biology / effect-of-different-colours-on-blood-pressure-biology-essay . php
A seasoned copywriter , DEBRA JASON is owner of Colorado-based The Write Direction . In addition , she is an alcohol ink artist creating unique abstract pieces to beautify resort and spa environments . Having spent 10 years living on the Hawaiian island of Kaua`i , Debra often creates paintings that look like flowers and , many times , are inspired by the colors and flow of the ocean . | WriteDirection . com and CreativeWhispersoftheHeart . com
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023 n PULSE 27