The Light Within: A magnificent exhibition honouring Sofitel’s 60th anniversary in Luang Prabang

"…October 2024 marks a monumental milestone for Sofitel. Not only does it signal the beginning of year-end travel and leisure for many, but this October also celebrates the brand’s impressive 60-year legacy in the luxury hospitality world. This grand occasion is being honoured through an exquisite art exhibition titled ‘The Light Within’, featuring the work of acclaimed Asian artist Sakul Intakul, bringing an unparalleled sense of elegance to this celebratory event…”

Rather than being held in Thailand, this exhibition is set in the UNESCO heritage city of Luang Prabang, a locale cherished for its picturesque banks along the Mekong River. The exhibition took place on 17th October 2024, aligning with the annual Light Boat Festival. This festival is deeply rooted in local customs, celebrated with radiant boat parades and offerings of lights along the water, a tradition rich in spiritual beauty and an ideal backdrop for Sofitel’s momentous anniversary.

Adding further allure, the venue, Sofitel Luang Prabang, stands in the heart of Luang Prabang’s historic quarters and once served as the residence of a French colonial governor. Although renovated in 2010 and refurbished in 2015, the property retains its timeless elegance. This year’s celebrations also commemorate the 20th anniversary of Luang Prabang’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. To honour this dual milestone, Sofitel Luang Prabang has been impeccably adorned, blending the grandeur of French architecture with the rich cultural legacy of Luang Prabang. The hotel’s aesthetic encompasses manicured gardens, historical interiors, and a distinctive deep purple pool, creating an ambience that recalls the elegance of the past while underscoring Sofitel’s leadership in luxury hospitality, a journey that began with their inaugural hotel in Strasbourg, France, in 1964.

At the heart of the celebration is ‘The Light Within’ exhibition, an intricate display inspired by the mosaic murals of the Sim Chapel at Wat Xieng Thong, a revered site in Luang Prabang with profound spiritual and artistic significance. The art installation and floral displays are curated by Sakul Intakul, a renowned artist celebrated for his mastery of using flowers and natural elements to create contemporary art that captivates the senses. His work embodies a convergence of spirituality, art, and age-old tradition, offering viewers a deeply moving experience. Held at Sofitel Luang Prabang, the event seamlessly merges traditional customs with a modern twist, drawing prominent figures and esteemed guests from the art world to celebrate in grand style.

Moreover, Sofitel’s 60th anniversary celebration extends beyond Luang Prabang, with over 120 exclusive events hosted worldwide throughout the year. This global series of celebrations reflects the brand’s distinguished status and commitment to blending culture, art, and exceptional hospitality in a way that is both distinctive and timeless.

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