Macau Lifestyle
  • What's On

    Categories

    • Giveaways
    • Entertainment

    Recent Stories

    Macau Lifestyle Wynn Macau Croiffle and Cruffin afternoon tea outdoors2
    Win an Exquisite Afternoon Tea Set at Café Esplanada
    Giveaways
    Macau Lifestyle Media - The St. Regis Macao - The St. Regis Bar - Jack's Club poster
    The Macallan Jack’s Club Jazz Experience at The St. Regis Bar
    Events & Promotions
    MGM Food Chinese New Year 2022
    Weekender: Welcome the Year of the Tiger, Visit Exhibitions & Much More
    Macau Weekend
  • Dining

    Categories

    • Restaurants
    • Local Eats
    • Cafes
    • Bars
    • Chef Spotlight

    Recent Stories

    Baked Pork Chop Rice rossio mgm macau copy
    Eight Must-Try Dishes at MGM MACAU You Don’t Want to Miss
    Dining
    cafe esplanada wynn macau croiffle
    The Variations Of French Croissant At Wynn Macau
    Dining
    st regis bar macao Tastemaker
    Where to Find Delicious Whiskey-Based Cocktails in Macau
    Bars
  • Lifestyle

    Categories

    • Wellness
    • Weddings
    • Family
    • People

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    Macau Lifestyle Macallan 12 MAC_2018_DC12_NEAT_Lifestyle_Photo_RGB
    Whisky Review: The Macallan Single Malt Whisky Double Cask Range
    Lifestyle
    steve-mccurry
    The Best of Two Worlds: The Macallan Single Malt Whisky Double Cask Range
    Lifestyle
  • Culture

    Categories

    • Arts
    • Heritage & History
    • Architecture
    • Artist Spotlight
    • Local Knowledge

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    st regis bar macao Tastemaker
    Where to Find Delicious Whiskey-Based Cocktails in Macau
    Bars
    Old Postcard circa 1900 from Macau Antique Postcards by Joao Loureiro
    Bela Vista Hotel: From Lavish Hotel to Wartime Refuge
    Culture
  • Style

    Categories

    • Fashion
    • Jewelry & Watches
    • Beauty
    • Home

    Recent Stories

    Wayuu Bag Macau
    Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level
    Culture
    Longines Master Collection Now Shines in Macau
    Longines Master Moonphase Now Shines in Macau
    Jewelry & Watches
    Clara Brito on a Fashion Shoot
    Clara Brito: Taking Action Through Fashion
    Fashion
  • Travel

    Categories

    • Macau
    • China
    • Asia
    • Oceania
    • Europe

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    Macau city
    A Stopover Guide: 24 Hours in Macau
    Travel
    Kenji Rukkit Gus graffiti street art outloud festival praca ponte e horta art one day macau
    One Day in Macau: Art Itinerary
    Arts
  • Hong Kong

    Categories

    • What's On
    • Dining
    • Things to Do
    • Hotels

    Recent Stories

    Grand Hyatt HK_French GourMay Staycation (3)
    French GourMay at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong Offers a Bespoke Culinary Trip to France
    Dining
    The Upper House Salisterra Main Dining Room
    Salisterra Showcases Exquisite Mediterranean Cuisine at The Upper House Hong Kong
    Dining
    Artist Wu Yi – Tang Contemporary gallery- Macau Lifestyle WY1
    Wu Yi: A Painter’s Painter
    Artist Spotlight
  • City Guide
  • 繁中
Arts
by Ksenia Kuzmina

MGM’s Art Collection: From Imperial Carpets to a Knitted Octopus

Octopus Valkyrie, JOANA VASCONCELOS Macau LIfesstyle MGM wideshot of Lobby

Macau might not be yet known as an art destination but it doesn’t mean that it has little to offer. Besides traditional venues like Macao Art Museum and several small private galleries, you can find art all around town albeit in less obvious places. Public spaces and shopping malls, small hotels, and large resorts–if you are curious and keep your eyes wide open, Macau can reveal itself as a city with an abundance of paintings, murals, sculptures worth seeing. Among those at the forefront of the city’s art scene is MGM. From world-famous artists and rare traditional pieces to contemporary objects, MGM can compete with many modern museums. Read on to learn more about why MGM’s art collection is worth taking the time to explore. 

● MGM Macau ●

Salvador Dali Dalinian Dancer 4

Dalinian dancer

Salvador Dali 

The art journey at MGM Macau begins right at the main hotel entrance. Next to it, stands a graceful sculpture by one of the most famous Spanish artists, Salvador Dali. The legendary surrealist is known mainly for his fantasy canvas, often inspired by the dreamland and subconscious. That sculpture at the entrance also depicts a character who once found herself trapped in the dreamland, Alice in Wonderland. On the left from Alice, you can see a crutch, a symbol of reality, an anchor to the real world. It is a common token in Dali’s works that also represents the need for support, both emotional and physical.

Another sculpture by Dali is only meters away, inside the main lobby. The graceful figure of the Dalinian Dancer seems to be frozen in movement, with skirts swirling around her. She spreads her arms towards another artwork, Fiori di Paradiso, hand-blown glass flowers by Dale Chihuly, an American sculptor.

Octopus Valkyrie, JOANA VASCONCELOS Macau LIfesstyle Close up

Valkyrie Octopus

Lions and octopus 

On the way to Grand Praca and in other corners or MGM Macau, you will see gracious lion sculptures. They have been MGM’s habitants since the 2014 Biennial of the Lions, a project created to honor the diplomatic relations between France and China. 50 artists from the two countries worked on 50 unique lion sculptures. Notably, the lion is the symbol of Lyon in France, as well as MGM. Not all, but some of them are displayed at MGM Macau.

Hands down, the most large-scale installation at MGM Macau is the colossal Valkyrie Octopus by Joana Vasconcelos. The acclaimed Portuguese artist created her largest work to date for MGM. The giant octopus sits on top of the cylindrical aquarium with its enormous tentacles crawling all over Grand Praca, awe-inspiring and slightly intimidating.

MGM Macau Vista, Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen, NAPE, +853 8802 8888, www.mgm.mo/en

● MGM Cotai ●

While MGM Macau represents Portuguese heritage, everything sophisticated and elegant, the resort in Cotai stands for things fun and innovative, contemporary. Still, it found a place for both contemporary art and classic pieces. From over 300 artworks, around 40 belong to the Chairman collection, the most valuable ones on permanent display. 

imperial carpet Five Lions at MGM Awakening Lion Exhibition 2021Imperial carpets 

One of the principal parts of its exposition is the collection of Imperial carpets. Qing Dynasty silk carpets with precious metal threads are full of symbols inherent to the Chinese culture, such as dragons, phoenixes, cranes, and flowers. Reading their symbolism is a mastery that requires a profound knowledge of Chinese culture. For example, the main symbol on the tapestry usually appears either five or nine times, two important numbers in Chinese numerology. Five symbolizes good luck, while nine stands for longevity and is associated with the Emperor of China.

The tapestries that used to embellish the Forbidden City’s royal pavilions are now on display at the Emerald lobby. Most importantly, this generous contribution to Macau’s art scene is for everybody to enjoy, free of charge! Only 300 imperial carpets survived to this day and 28 of them are at MGM Cotai. Scan the QR-codes next to the carpets to read some facts about them.

Cài Gúoqiáng Study for Uffizi Macau Lifestyle 3

Study for Uffizi: A Bouquet of Flowers No.1

From traditional to contemporary 

For connoisseurs of contemporary art, there is plenty to explore at MGM Cotai. Don’t miss the two paintings by Cai Guo Qiang, one of China’s most prominent artists. Cai’s talent earned him numerous solo exhibitions in top world museums such as Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York and Uficci Galery in Florence. Moreover, the Chinese government chose him to create a fireworks show at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and the 70th Anniversary Celebration of the People’s Republic of China.

“Study for Uffizi: A Bouquet of Flowers No.1.” and “Alchemist” became a part of the Chairman Collection in 2019.

Cai Guo Qiang is not the only Chinese artist here. Wander through the resort’s corridors and lobbies to admire contemporary sculptures and canvases. Pass by Beijing-based Zheng Lu’s steel sculptures to appreciate the artist’s brilliant skill of capturing the fluidity. The sizeable abstract work by Hsiao Chin, influenced by modern conceptual art and traditional Chinese calligraphy, is not to be missed either. When you find Eight Views of Macau by Xue Song near Five Foot Road, take a moment to get closer. Inspired by Macau’s landmarks, this collage is made with countless pieces of burned materials the author collected in Macau.

If you wish to find all the art objects at MGM Cotai and Macau and learn more about them, MGM’s online tour is a handy tool for that. Should you prefer a guided tour, you can request one with MGM Cotai’s concierge in advance. 

MGM_COTAI_Spectacle_venue_night_view_02

Digital art

When you are tired of walking around, spotting art here and there at 280,000 sqm property, take a seat at the Spectacle. Get yourself a cup of coffee and watch the kaleidoscope of mesmerizing photography: breathtaking landscapes and landmarks by the National Geographic photographers, botanical illustrations, Macau skyline, and more.

With the vast glass dome and LED screens showcasing captivating images and videos non-stop, MGM Cotai’s Spectacle is an artwork by itself. Moreover, if you want to feel like a kid, visit the spectacle at 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 5:00pm and 7:00pm to enjoy the silver dolphins joyfully floating around, a hypnotizing vision and a fine example of modern technology.

Also read: Your Ultimate Macau Art Guide


MGM Cotai Avenida da Nave Desportiva, Cotai, +853 8802 8888, www.mgm.mo/en/cotai

Brought to you in partnership with MGM Macau

Tags

  • Macau Art
  • MGM Art
  • MGM Cotai
  • MGM Macau

Related Posts

Korlouyeah Interview Feature Photo
Artist Spotlight

Korlouyeah: Photographing Macau’s Motions & Emotions

63c4f00b-ca84-4eda-8f54-1fc5b633bee6_l
Architecture

Macau’s Tap Seac Square by Carlos Marreiros

MGM Macau and MGM Cotai - Culinary Craftsmanship - Palate-Awakening Creations
Chef Spotlight

Awakening Exhibition: MGM Macau & MGM Cotai Elevate Culinary Craftsmanship With Palate-Awakening Creations

Santa Rosa de Lima
Culture

Santa Rosa de Lima: Convent Turned School

Trending Posts

Macau, Travel

10 Free Things to Do in Macau

Dom Pedro V Theatre facade
Culture, Heritage, Local Knowledge

Dom Pedro V Theatre: China’s First Western Theater

Culture, Dining, Local Eats, Local Knowledge, People

Marmitas.Come: Home to Authentic Portuguese Takeaway in Macau

Heritage, Local Knowledge

Famous Films Shot in Macau

  • Editor's Picks

    ladies night macau Bars

    Where My Ladies At: The Best Ladies’ Night Offers in Macau

    From free-flow champagne to free Prosecco bottles, check our list of the best ladies’ night offers in Macau.

    Salvador Dali Alice in Wonderland Macau Lifestyle hidden artwork Macau Arts

    Art Masterpieces in Macau You Did Not Know Existed

    Some pieces of art are in the most prominent spots, but there are some artwork that remain hidden in Macau. Here’s where you can find them!

    Cuppa Coffee Macau Dining

    Good Morning Macau: Best Cafes for Breakfast

    As breakfast is the most important meal of the day, here’re our favorite cafes in Macau to head to for a hearty breakfast!

    Coloane hiking trail Culture

    Guide to Coloane’s Hiking Trails

    Coloane is home to most of the hiking trails in town. We walked them all and came up with the most comprehensive Coloane hiking trails guide.

    Wayuu Bag Macau Culture

    Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level

    Macau is a small city, but it sure has a lot of new businesses popping up. We rounded up a list of cool businesses to check out and support!

    start line photo Lifestyle

    Top Running Routes in Macau

    Make the effort to get up 30 minutes earlier from tomorrow onwards and check out any of these stunning running routes in Macau.

    The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge Gin Collection Bars

    Best Places for Happy Hour in Macau

    After a long day at work, you need a relaxing place to unwind. We have the best places in Macau for happy hour deals on drinks and snacks!

    Flora Garden playground Family

    The Best Playgrounds for Kids in Macau

    Macau is full of parks and leisure areas that feature some amazing play areas. Here’s a list of the best playgrounds in Macau for the tykes!

    Zics Macau Brand Source Facebook page Fashion

    Macau Fashion Brands: Celebrate Local Design

    Discover some Macau fashion brands that are making waves due to the fabulous designers behind each of their fresh and genius creations.

    Maria do Leste Bloody Mary from St Regis Macao Updated Photo 2020 Bars

    Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails

    The world of mixology often proves to be as diverse and surprising as the one of gastronomy. Exercising talent and immense creativity, Macau’s bartenders keep creating signature cocktails that impress us with both flavors and presentation. If you are tired and bored with mojitos and negronis and need tips on what else to try, check out our guide to Macau’s best cocktails. 

    sound-of-century-vintage-sound-machines-museum Arts

    Macau’s Quirkiest Museums

    When art and history collections are inspected, it’s time to learn things that even locals might not know. Read on to plan a visit to Macau’s quirkiest museums.

    sw-steakhouse-barcounter-cocktails-macau-wynn-palace Bars

    SW Steakhouse Bar at Wynn Palace: Home of Barrel-Aged Cocktails

    Known as one of the best restaurants for juicy prime cuts, SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace also features a bar with must-try cocktails.

    Negroni bar patua mgm cotai macau lifestyle Bars

    Where to Have an Unforgettable Negroni in Macau

    Check our list of the best bars in Macau that serve the Italian bitter-sweet cocktail, Negroni, from classic recipes to original twists!

    elysee bakery croissants macau Cafes

    Where to Find the Best Croissants in Macau

    Is there a more popular and beloved French pastry than the almighty croissant? We doubled our fitness hours and tried dozens of pastries to come up with the list of the best croissants in Macau!

    sponge-cake-macau-lifestyle-chinese-pastries Dining

    A Tour of Traditional Chinese Pastries in Macau

    Every tourist coming to Macau can make a fast conclusion that cookies and pastries here are held in high regard. Where do you start, and what do you eat? To get acquainted with a curious word of local sweets, check our guide to the Chinese pastries in Macau.

    The Manor Stories of the Sea Seventh Chapter Sea Urchin, fusilli Gentile red mullet bottarga, arugula ginger emulsion Dining

    Where to Have the Best Pasta in Macau

    If you’re craving for Italian-style pasta, here’re the ones that have tickled our taste buds and discover the varieties in Macau!

    Santa Rosa de Lima Culture

    Santa Rosa de Lima: Convent Turned School

    Santa Rosa de Lima is a well-known school in Macau, but did you know what it was in the 19th century? Discover more about this place here!

    Signature cocktail - Patuá mgm cotai macau Bars

    Bar Patuá at MGM Macau: Language of Mixology

    Whether it is cool cocktails, stunning design, or engaging conversations with a bartender, Bar Patuá has a lot to offer. Learn more in our review!

    girl with dog and cocktail cafe Cafes

    Best Pet Friendly Cafes in Macau

    Unwilling to leave your fur child behind while you stroll the streets of Macau? Here are pet-friendly cafes in Macau for you to bring your furry friend to!

    hac sa beach coloane Picnic spot Macau Family

    Great Picnic Spots in Macau

    Picnics are the best way to enjoy nature, good company and food. Here’re the best picnic spots in Macau for your friends and family to enjoy!

    Jetfoil TurboJET Urzela Culture

    Macau Ferries: Travelling To & From Hong Kong Since the 1950s

    Did you know that Jetfoils were originally for the military? Find out more about these Macau ferries that travel between Hong Kong and Macau!

    Korlouyeah Interview Feature Photo Artist Spotlight

    Korlouyeah: Photographing Macau’s Motions & Emotions

    Korlouyeah is a local web editor who photographs Macau and its people. We sat down with the artist to know more about his creative eye.

    Tsung I Macau Culture

    Jao Tsung-I: Prominent Sinologist & Literature Researcher in Macau

    Jao Tsung-I was a key figure in the study of ancient literature and history, as well as a prolific Chinese calligraphy artist.

    LP World Sketches Luisa People

    Sketching the World Around Her: Luísa Petiz of LP World Sketches

    Find out how Macau charmed Luísa Petiz and inspired her to sketch its beauty along with updates on exhibitions of her works!

    63c4f00b-ca84-4eda-8f54-1fc5b633bee6_l Architecture

    Macau’s Tap Seac Square by Carlos Marreiros

    Have you ever wondered about Tap Seac Square, its history, and what used to be there? Find out more about its history and right here!

    Minchi Marmitas Come Macau Culture

    Marmitas.Come: Home to Authentic Portuguese Takeaway in Macau

    Marmitas.Come is a local shop specializing in authentic Portuguese food for takeaway. Read on and find out their story and future plans!

    Camões Bust in Grotto Culture

    The Camões Phenomena: All the Way From Portugal to Macau

    Portuguese poet Camões is well-known in Macau. But do you know why? We tell you some interesting facts about the author’s life!

    macau tourist guide Local Knowledge

    A Quick Guide for First Timers to Macau

    Is it your first time in Macau? Check out our guide for the essential things to know, planning tips, directions, and places to visit!

    beijing memory li xiao feng mandarin oriental macau art Arts

    Art at Mandarin Oriental, Macau: Porcelain Dresses & Contemporary Glass Installations

    Read on to see how Mandarin Oriental, Macau, highlights its style and identity with art and design masterpieces by different artists.  

    fit in the box healthy meals macau Dining

    Best Places for a Healthy Meal in Macau

    Eating smart is the best way to achieve a healthier outlook. These healthy food spots in Macau would make any meatless Monday much easier!

  • About
  • The Team
  • Advertise
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us

COPYRIGHT © 2022 • MACAU LIFESTYLE

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive Macau Events Agenda, the Hottest Giveaway Offers and the Latest Article Updates!