Media Release 
February 13, 2024
Gallery of images here

Regarded as one of Australia's foremost luxury travel destinations, Raes on Wategos is proud to announce Eytan Messiah as its 2024 Artist In Residence. Following a successful residency in 2022, Eytan has returned to Raes to revitalise its iconic pool, creating a bespoke tile and ceramic mural inspired by the unique architecture of the hotel, the history of Wategos and its sense of place.

Established in 2019 in collaboration with Maison Perrier-Jouët, Raes' Artist in Residence programme celebrates the decadent dialogue between art, champagne and boutique luxury, which are central to the Raes ethos. Each year, Raes handpicks an artist to reside at the hotel and craft a collection of artwork that reflects the essence of the hotel, in the artist's unique medium. The series includes previous partnerships with French-born Australian artist Stanislas Piechaczek, and men's resort label COMMAS. 

Eytan Messiah's partnership with Raes commenced in 2022 with a series of captivating ceramic artworks, which now reside at the hotel and are available to purchase via the Raes website. Building upon this successful collaboration, Eytan has expanded his artistic vision to refresh Raes pool with bespoke ceramic tiles that are displayed in the hotel's private pool. The tiles feature alongside a larger decorative mural with a button inviting guests to 'Press for Champagne', to which glasses of Perrier-Jouët will be delivered poolside. 

Eytan's tile design is a thoughtful representation of Raes' rich history and an ode to the legacy of the Wategos family, featuring a banana palm as a central motif that symbolises the hotel's evolution from untamed bushland to a refined, luxury travel destination. A nod to the ocean is evident in the design, reflecting the hotel's enviable beachfront location. Salmon pink hues echo the breathtaking sunsets that grace the horizon, while geometric lines reminiscent of Raes' original painted façade bring a touch of nostalgia. Eytan masterfully weaves in white art deco and Mediterranean references drawing inspiration from the hotel's architectural elegance.

At the heart of Eytan's design lies a dedication to artisanal craftsmanship, showcasing the significance of handcrafted tiles in the modern era of mass production. By embracing locally-made, small-batch artisanal tile making, Eytan's work pays homage to the importance of preserving traditional techniques. The tiles reference the hotel's original design and its integration of tilework throughout the guest suites and beyond, serving as a bridge between past and present. The intricate patterns and vibrant colours of the tiles tell a story of cultural heritage and add a touch of bespoke luxury; a symbol of the hotel's artistic reverence.

“My residency at Raes on Wategos has been a deeply immersive experience,” said artist Eytan Messiah. “Glazed ceramic tiles have adorned our human history for thousands of years and I am always keen for my work to centre around these valuable traditions. The beauty and history of the Wategos area as well as the hotel itself have been a rich palette to draw from. My handcrafted tiles and ceramic mural look to celebrate these elements and add to the story of Raes on Wategos.”

Raes' revitalised pool stands as a resounding testament to the hotel's unwavering commitment to providing a luxurious guest experience. Each corner of the hotel has been meticulously crafted by interior designer Tamsin Johnson, including the seven guest suites, all of which are unique in their personality, yet united in their refined yet unpretentious coastal feel. The hotel's pool, spa, Dining Room and Cellar Bar all share Tamsin Johnson's elegant, eclectic aesthetic - an idyllic setting for leisurely days immersed in subtropic serenity. 

Raes General Manager Marty McCaig said: “Art has historically been woven into the fabric of the Raes identity so it's important for us to continue its evolution, whilst maintaining relevance to our past and present. Our Artist in Residence programme is a testament to our appreciation for creativity and the power of artistic expression.”

“Following on from Eytan Messiah's residency in 2022, we reignited our mutual love for the existing tile work across the property and we are thrilled to now showcase Eytan's artistry in a new and exciting form, bringing a fresh perspective to our iconic pool.”

With a strong sense of place and a focus on local and sustainable sourcing and operations, Raes embodies the essence of Byron Bay's internationally acclaimed take on relaxed luxury. Through the Artist in Residence programme, the hotel celebrates its profound connection to the local art community and its dedication to offering an exceptional guest experience. 

Eytan Messiah's tile and ceramic mural are now displayed in the Raes pool, with a limited-run of the handcrafted tiles available to purchase via the Raes website. To shop Eytan's tile, or to find out more about Raes Artist in Residence programme, please visit Raes.com.au. 

-ENDS-

Please direct all media enquiries to The Cru

Shannon Blanchard, 0432 543 377 or shannon@thecru.agency

Hannah Fedeli, 0437 166 571 or hannah.f@thecru.agency 

About Raes on Wategos:

Raes is Australia's most iconic and revered hotel and hospitality brand - a name synonymous with Byron Bay's unique coastal style. With a portfolio that includes Raes on Wategos, Raes Dining Room, Raes Cellar Bar and elegant super yacht, M.Y. Sea Raes, the group has built a global reputation for its unparalleled style and uniquely Australian approach to high-end travel experiences. 

Owned and operated by the Catalano family, Raes is a luxury hospitality company with a clear vision to deliver hotel, culinary, wellness and travel experiences that embody the essence of Byron Bay's internationally acclaimed take on relaxed luxury. Raes collaborates with the best designers, suppliers, hospitality talent and creatives to curate experiences that are exceptional, distinctive and anchored by a sense of place. A belief in the power of boutique luxury informs everything that Raes does, as does a commitment to local, sustainable sourcing and operations.