Melbourne hotel inspired by Chinese-Australian artist is a gallery-like getaway
Zhong Chen’s expressive, abstract artworks decorate rooms, suites and public spaces at The Chen
What is it? A new 100-room hotel dedicated to and inspired by Chinese-Australian artist Zhong Chen, whose contemporary works fill the lobby, line the corridors and hang in bedrooms and suites.
The Chen is the eighth of its kind by boutique outfit Art Series Hotels, a progressive brand that has dedicated each of its properties to an Australian contemporary artist whose work and life reflect the local neighbourhood. Box Hill, where Chen has lived and now has a studio, is a burgeoning Melbourne suburb celebrated for its ethnic diversity and identity.
Tell us about the artist. Chen was born in Zhongshan, Guangdong province, in 1969. His first love was traditional calligraphy and, in the early 1980s, he took lessons.
A defining trip to a contemporary calligraphy exhibition in northern China convinced him to pursue a creative career, and he began at the University of South Australia’s School of Art, in Adelaide, in 1989. Six years later, he graduated with honours before going on to win a scholarship for the Chelsea College of Arts, in London, Britain, and two Australia Council grants to participate in New York residencies, in the United States.
He is a three-time finalist for the Archibald Prize, Australia’s most prestigious portraiture award.