A new art hotel has come on the scene thanks to renowned winemaker Susana Balbo. Argentina’s first female winemaker opened SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites in Mendoza with the help of her daughter, Ana Lovaglio Balbo, last year showcasing artwork from 15 prominent Argentine and Brazilian artists, including renowned photographer Sebastiao Salgado. A reflection of her life story, the Tree of Life is ever present throughout the hotel, but perhaps most noticeably in a commissioned piece from another Argentine great, plastic artist Sergio Roggerone.
Showcased in the main house as its foundation, the Tree of Life has 7 components. The root represents the enological origin of the hostess of the house. The trunk, made of papyrus that maintains the natural color of the passage of time, shows the growth through the years. The flowers, with their vibrant colors that excite at first sight, symbolize strength and femininity, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment. The abundance of fruit signifies the reward for the effort and enjoyment of life. The birds are the representation of family and the nourishment of affection and companionship that give life and meaning to the mother-daughter atmosphere within the hotel, and the insects showcase developing spiritual freedom and the full essence of the heart.
Each suite ties in to the Tree of Life with additional art from Julio Le Parc, Fernando Jereb, Enrique Testasecca Chiavazza, Guillermo Rigattieri, Martín Villalonga, Florencia Aise (she exports to the US) & a Cristina Santander, among others. Art ranges from paintings and sculptures to handmade tapestries and arches that welcome guests into the hotel.
SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites is also the home of “Colección de Miroirs” from Mendoza’s most acclaimed plastic artist, Julio Le Parc. It shows how the most important critic of one’s own work is oneself, the reflection of one’s own being. Each detail reflects authenticity, transparency, and respect.
