Celebrate the Legacy of Stevie Wonder at Thompson Buckhead!
Hotel lobby turned legacy gallery through April 27.
Step into a hotel lobby where art meets melody, every stroke on canvas echoes a musical note, and every sculpture embodies the essence of rhythm. I recently had the pleasure of attending the "OUR CELEBRATION OF STEVIE WONDER" exhibit at the Thompson Buckhead, and let me tell you, it's an experience you don't want to miss! Opening night was a beautiful East Coast debut of the exhibit presented by Art Melanated. Blending my admiration for a swanky hotel lobby, soul music, and connecting with beautiful people in one evening was a joy. It is literally what “The Hotel Lobby” is made for.
Traveling from California, this extraordinary exhibit pays homage to the legendary Stevie Wonder, a musical genius whose influence knows no bounds. As you glide through the halls of the Thompson Buckhead, you'll find yourself surrounded by memorabilia, Grammy awards, ticket stubs, and more, all celebrating the wonder of Stevie.
But the real heart beat lies in the incredible art on display. Each piece is a testament to his enduring legacy, from captivating paintings of a young Stevie to intricate sculptures of his signature braids. One particular favorite of mine was a mesmerizing mixed-media creation by Jennia Fredrique Aponte, who also happens to be the exhibit's co-curator ( pictured below). She explained the various pieces of art representing Stevie. The galaxy in his fro, the flowers in this shirt, the braille words of his favorite book, and the 24k gold halo around him. I adore hearing artists describe their vision coming to life.
What makes this experience even more special is the, Thompson Buckhead. Their lobby is already art itself. It boasts a grand, modern lobby that serves as the perfect backdrop for this celebration of music and art. In an Interlacedvibes.com article that reviewed our first stay at Thompson Buckhead, I described the lobby as a “Jewelry Box, with orange and red jewel tones illuminated with enticing gold light fixtures. (Click the link to read all the fun deets!) Gracefully, the arches, curves, and accents create a gallery feel.” The exhibit extends throughout the hotel lobby, from the elegant study to the open living room, immersing you in Stevie's world at every turn. Check out the Instagram Reel of the Opening Receptions: HERE
And let's not forget about the breathtaking views you'll find at the Tesserae rooftop restaurant. Take in the sights of the city amongst the backdrop of enlarged black and white photos of Stevie Wonder and Barry Gordy, this area is my favorite. Legendary images captured by Bruce W. Talamon add another layer of essence to an already vibe-rich experience of a live DJ, Lemon Peoppa Steppa wings, and a Living Single cocktail. The menu is stacked with delicious bites.
3 reasons why this experience is an absolute must-see:
Cultural Legacy: Step into the soulful impact of Stevie Wonder on the world of music across generations and genres. His influence, involvement, and uplifting spirit reverberate throughout the exhibit, offering a poignant tribute to his cultural significance. It's an artist receiving flowers while they are still with us – a beautiful acknowledgment of his ongoing contribution to the artistic landscape.
Community Connection: Witness Stevie Wonder through the vantage points of diverse artists, each offering their unique interpretation of his persona and music. From vibrant mixed-media compositions to intricate statues, every piece captures a different facet of Stevie's essence. The exhibit serves as a testament to the unifying power of music, bridging communities and fostering a deeper appreciation for Stevie's profound impact.
Time Travel: Take in the nostalgia as you glide through the exhibit, encountering relics from Stevie's past concerts and glimpses of his youthful vibes. Old concert tickets and photographs transport you to bygone eras, allowing you to experience moments in Stevie's journey that may have otherwise been lost to time.
It's a captivating glimpse into the evolution of a musical legend, offering a fresh perspective even for those familiar with his later works. I realized I never knew “young Stevie”. I met him in a particular era. The re-introduction led me to find new songs and details about Mr.Wonder.
👀If you pay close attention, you will find quotes from Stevie Wonder tucked around the hotel.
Grab your girls, crew, or boo, the exhibit will only be calling the Thompson Buckhead home until April 27th. So whether you're a longtime fan of Stevie Wonder or simply appreciate the intersection of art and music, make sure to make your way to the Thompson Buckhead and join us in celebrating musical history in the vibrant city of Atlanta, courtesy of Art Melanated.
Also, read my article “Weekend Getaway: Thompson Buckhead” on Interlacedvibes.com
