Maldives.net.mv – Food meets modern art at Huvafen Fushi’s wine cellar, Vinum, this Christmas season. Dine under the surreal beauty of suspended paper chandeliers and floating art, created by renowned New York based installation artist Kirsten Hassenfeld, meeting the unique talent herself. Take your own artwork home with a complimentary family portrait by celebrated, award winning Sydney photographer Pierre Mardaga.

Art Installation & Dinner

With work funded by the New York Foundation of Arts, acclaimed exhibitions across the USA, Hong Kong and in Italy, and an Individual Artist Grant from The Pollock-Krasner Foundation, Kirsten Hassenfeld will visit Huvafen Fushi between 17 – 22 December 2013. She will arrive in the Maldives fresh from her latest exhibition at Lane Crawford Department Stores in Hong Kong and her customized artworks will be showcased in Vinum from 21 December 2013 until 12 February 2014.

Inspired by the magic of Christmas and Vinum, Kirsten will suspend her aesthetically intricate paper pieces from Vinum’s ceiling for a special dinner on 21^st December created by resident Executive Chef Daniel Johnson. Guests will be able to join Kirsten and become part of the art. Those who want to spend more time with Kirsten can meet her for a wine tasting as her artistic installation begins. Interact and watch her ethereal creations transform Vinum over the days to follow.

Award Winning Portraits

Capturing a perfect moment in time is the creative lens of renowned Australian photographer Pierre Mardaga between 26 December 2013 – 2 January 2014. Christmas is about family and the award-winning artist will present guests with a beautiful family portrait, set against the backdrop of this photogenic island. Compliments of Huvafen Fushi, this is the perfect memento to take home.

With over 20 years’ experience in people photography and capturing the essence of relationships through film, Pierre will shoot the complimentary guest portraits in the morning, with an opportunity for customized sessions in the afternoon, including hair and make-up.

Huvafen Fushi is located in the North Malé Atoll and enjoys a pristine private island setting featuring 44 naturally modern bungalows and pavilions, and is home to the world’s first underwater spa. For more information please visit www.huvafenfushi.com