MGM Resorts’ Expansive Cultural Influence Showcased in Bellagio Gallery’s “ICONS of Contemporary Art”

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Gallery is at the Forefront of Las Vegas’ Cultural Renaissance

Las Vegas, a city renowned for its entertainment and nightlife, is rapidly emerging as a vibrant hub of artistic expression. Central to this transformation is the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA), a cultural landmark within MGM Resorts’ global portfolio, which includes around a dozen properties. BGFA’s latest exhibition, “ICONS of Contemporary Art,” underscores the significant evolution the gallery has undergone since its inception in 1998, symbolizing MGM Resorts’ growing footprint in the global art scene.

Curated by Ralph DeLuca, “ICONS of Contemporary Art,” running until March 31, 2024, showcases a diverse range of contemporary artworks, including pieces by George Condo and Frank Stella. This exhibition presents a rich tapestry of works by internationally acclaimed artists such as Ghada Amer, Sanford Biggers, Yoshitaka Amano, Sherrie Levine, Esther Mahlangu, and Gina Beavers. Each piece offers a unique perspective, challenging traditional notions and redefining contemporary iconography.

Particularly notable in the exhibition is the art of renowned South African artist Mahlangu, who is making waves in the international art scene with her vibrant, geometric paintings that draw from the traditional Ndebele style. Recently, her global appeal was underscored when a New York collector acquired 37 of her works, including a remarkable 200cm x 600cm piece. This follows the return of her iconic 1991 BMW 525i, painted in the Ndebele art form ukugwala, to South Africa after 32 years as part of BMW’s Art Car campaign.

“ICONS of Contemporary Art” is a significant milestone for Las Vegas, reflecting a shift in Las Vegas’s cultural offerings, aligning with global art trends and the city’s unique character. The exhibition positions Las Vegas as a compelling destination in the international art scene, particularly as Chinese travelers, known for their cultural affinity, are expected to return in large numbers, potentially coinciding with the city’s hosting of a Formula 1 race next year.

“ICONS of Contemporary Art” also plays a critical role in transforming Las Vegas into a recognized destination for culturally minded visitors globally. The exhibition draws art enthusiasts worldwide, enriching Las Vegas’s cultural landscape. The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, through this event, redefines the role of art galleries in the city, creating a nexus where art, entertainment, and cultural discourse intersect.

The gallery’s journey, from its origins showcasing a private collection established by Steve Wynn and Mirage Resorts to its post-2000 transformation after merging with MGM Grand Inc., marks a significant transition. This shift from a private collection to a space for rotating exhibitions broadened its artistic scope. Collaborations with prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego have been pivotal in this development, bringing diverse and significant exhibitions to Las Vegas.

This folds into the way that MGM Resorts International is revolutionizing cultural tourism by diversifying its public fine art collection, emphasizing inclusivity with acquisitions from artists of color, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community, prominently displayed across its Las Vegas Strip properties. Complementing this initiative, MGM Resorts Art & Culture actively participates in art-focused ventures and collaborations, notably presenting a series of short films at Art Basel, underscoring its dedication to enriching cultural experiences.

The adaptability and partnerships of BGFA have solidified its position as a leading cultural destination, evident in its popularity and contributions to the cultural fabric of the United States. As Demecina Beehn, Director Art & Culture for MGM Resorts, put it, “In this micro-survey of preeminent artists, we offer multiple points of connection to sensuality, architecture, play and experimentation both visually and conceptually.”

Added Beehn, “While vastly different in their approach, each artist hones a clear voice or style that challenges boundaries, thus exemplifying aspects of their greatness.”