Art at Arlo Wynwood: A celebration of creativity, diversity and women of color

Arlo Hotels, the brand chargeable for boutique accommodations in New York, Chicago – and within the near future in Washington – is expanding its reach far beyond the hotel space. Through recent activations at its Wynwood property, the corporate goals to spotlight diversity, creativity and women artists of color.

In February, Arlo Wynwood presented his work Kandy G Lopez and Reyna Noriega, two nationally known Afro-Caribbean artists who’ve been innovators of their field for several years. Lopez’s exhibition is situated within the Living Room gallery on the hotel’s third floor and is an ode to artists who truly know the Miami area. Her collection also features marginalized individuals who encourage and move Lopez, a theme that dominates much of her work.

Kandy G Lopez, “Our Shadow Remains.” Courtesy of Arlo Hotels

“My premise and the reason I create art is representation,” Lopez explains. “It’s something different when you can see yourself in these spaces because then it becomes tangible. So I want that same experience for people of color when they go into spaces that they wouldn’t normally see themselves in.” Throughout her time in New Jersey and Florida, the FAU graduate fully understands the importance of providing opportunities for individuals who appear to be her, especially with regards to the humanities.

In addition, Arlo Wynwood introduced Noriega’s, a completely personalized room featuring floor-to-ceiling art and beauty products from the renowned artist, painter and writer. The 445-square-foot suite surrounds guests with a mixture of shades of peach, orange and turquoise. The artwork comes from the Miami-based artist’s personal collection and depicts narratives of balance, happiness, empowerment and community amongst women.

Reyna’s “Oasis of Peace and Joy”. Courtesy of Arlo Hotels

Beneath the surface of Reyna’s custom-painted partitions lies a message that should be heard. The beauty of her oasis is one thing, nevertheless it is the emotions it evokes in guests that make the room truly unique. “As an artist, I’m trying to transform the idea of ​​the Black experience as something about trauma or something that comes as an afterthought into something that feels like a celebration and is as rich and vibrant and diverse as we are cultural,” he says. “That’s why I think art that centers our blackness and uplifts women of color is crucial.”

“And I think that’s what people who visit this space feel,” Noriega continues. “Through my art, people can see the very best in themselves and the person they love. And for it to create a way of pride, for it to be consciously thought of, whether it is the hair products that I designed that we’ve within the room, or simply those which might be made for you and not those that you’ve gotten to adapt in a way, because nobody has intended this place for you.

Courtesy of Arlo Hotels

As Black History Month and Women’s History Month were celebrated, respectively, Kandy’s exhibit and Reyna’s apartment were highlighted at the very best possible time. What’s much more special is that these two artists are the proper embodiment of the mission of Arlo Wynwood’s segment. “Part of Arlo’s mantra is to create a platform for people who are themselves marginalized,” says Jimmy Suh, the brand’s chief industrial officer. “Our inherent goal is to democratize this experience, and this not only applies to guests, but also to performers and artists themselves, to provide them with a platform where they can present their works to a wider audience.”

Since opening in 2022, Arlo Wynwood has been a pacesetter in promoting diversity and creativity. It continues to construct on these ideologies through inspiring collaborations with talented artists and provides visitors with experiences they will not find anywhere else. Arlo’s goal is to lift the usual within the hotel industry and strengthen its impact not only on the area people, but additionally on a world scale.

Courtesy of Arlo Hotels

“Hospitality itself is meant to serve people from all walks of life,” says Suh. “And not all walks of life give equitable influence to female artists, especially women of color. I’ll take Kandy Lopez, when I met her I learned about her upbringing. She is a single mom. He has broken down the barriers of higher education and shares the same sentiments as us – me and Arlo – about being inspired by underrepresented people. It’s just the right thing to do; to give a platform to people who don’t always have equal opportunities.”