Belmond launches first ‘rolling canvas’ on a train aboard Eastern & Oriental Express

The exterior of two of the carriages of the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express in Asia will showcase a stunning ‘rolling canvas’ by Singapore-based street artist, Rajesh Kumar, that will remain on the train until 28 April 2017. Giving new meaning to ‘Art in Motion’, Belmond has worked with creative experts to curate a fully sensory experience that includes collaborating with leading mixologists ‘Cocktail Professor’ on an innovative new cocktail menu and world-class DJ and music producer, Mr Has, for a contemporary soundscape as well as introducing a relaxed dress code of ‘tropical elegance’.

“Eastern & Oriental Express is an icon of luxury travel in Asia; the colonial carriages have always evoked the spirit of the golden age of travel and today, as we look to our future heritage, we are revealing a contemporary new look and feel in partnership with some of Asia’s leading creative talent.”

Arnaud Champenois, SVP Brand & Marketing

Art in motion

Belmond commissioned emerging artist Rajesh Kumar to create the one of a kind artwork – ‘The Koi Pond’ depicts the joy of travel, movement and the coming together of friends and family – the result is a visual surprise as the train weaves through Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

“The Koi Pond has always been something I have been fascinated about. 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”.

Rajesh Kumar, Artist

Kumar’s artistic style of amalgamating old and new school techniques within the context of art is a perfect combination for the Eastern & Oriental Express project. A Fine Art Graduate from Goldsmiths University of London, Rajesh has previously worked at Sundaram Tagore Gallery Singapore – renowned for representing artists such as Hiroshi Senju, Sebastiaõ Salgado and Golnaz Fathi – where he gained experience as an art handler.

Cocktails to stir the senses

Devised by leading mixologists, Cocktail Professor, the new cocktail menu takes guests on a sensory journey along the train’s route. Combining modern techniques with classic cocktail etiquette and imaginative presentation; new signature cocktails include ‘Mist of the rice paddies’ created to evoke the aroma of the mist at sunrise over the paddy fields during harvest, and ‘Malay Jungle’ using fresh natural botanicals for a green, full of life and healthy drink. Cocktail Professor creates concepts that aim to tickle the taste buds and create a memorable cocktail experience.

The sound of travel

The bar car is the social hub of the train, where new friends meet and raise a glass to their shared adventures in bonhomie and celebration. Music is essential to creating the right atmosphere and so Belmond has collaborated with producer and DJ, Mr Has, to curate a soundscape that sets a timeless pace and tone for the train – combining live recordings of cool jazz with uplifting future classics and deep grooves. Singapore-based Mr Has is an award-winning music DJ and champion of electric sound – the creative brief for Eastern & Oriental Express is to bring this contemporary sound into a classical environment inspiring an atmosphere of modern nostalgia.

“At Belmond, we are creating experiences that invite our guests to enjoy classical hospitality whilst immersed in modern culture – we call it ‘tradition re-imagined’.”

Arnaud Champenois, SVP Brand & Marketing

Eastern & Oriental Express travels between Singapore and Bangkok on 2- and 3-night journeys from January to April and September to December carrying up to 82 passengers in all ensuite cabins. Travelling aboard the train is the perfect vantage point from which to view breathtaking scenery and to meet exceptional characters with a story to tell.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=172vUent9H8&feature=youtu.be