Art + Design

Art meets luxury travel aboard the E&O Express

Art in motion

26.02.2017

By Su Fen Tan

Art meets luxury travel aboard the E&O Express

Earlier this month, Belmond unveiled a new concept in luxury rail travel: the iconic carriages of the Eastern & Oriental Express in Asia play the role of an art medium as the exterior gets a makeover by Rajesh Kumar, a street artist based in Singapore. The train—which travels through Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand—now bears a one of a kind artwork titled ‘The Koi Pond’, which depicts the joy of travel, movement and the coming together of friends of family.

“‘The Koi Pond’, has always been something I have been fascinated about,” says Rajesh Kumar. “Throughout my journey, it had made me feel like a koi fish in a pond. The colours and vibrancy of the fish and the water that displays emotions in many and felt it would beautifully represent Eastern & Oriental Express in aspects of luxurious travels.”

 

Taking the notion of ‘Art in Motion’ to greater lengths, other creative experts were also brought onboard the project to curate a fully sensory experience. On the drinks front, leading mixologists ‘Cocktail Professor’ designed a new cocktail menu, which includes innovative cocktails such as ‘Malay Jungle’—made using fresh natural botanicals for a healthy drink that is green, fresh and full of life. On the music front, Belmond collaborated with DJ Mr Has to curate a soundscape that combines live recordings of cool jazz with uplifting future classics and deep grooves, setting an immersive and timeless tone for the train. 

 

‘The Koi Pond’ will remain on the trail until 28 April 2017. Eastern & Oriental Express travels between Singapore and Bangkok on 2 and 3 night journeys from Jan – April and Sept – Dec. 

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