Bertrand Castelli was a beloved long-time resident of Maroma. He was an unpredictable, larger-than–life presence who fascinated all who met him, and about whom eminent French author Jean Michael Ribes wrote: If they ever build a museum to commemorate the art of living, Bertand Castelli will be a permanent exhibit.” Bertrand was painter, dancer, singer; created ballets, operas and plays, standing out as Executive producer of the phenomenally successful musical HAIR.
In the mid-1980's Castelli visited the Yucutan Peninsula and met architect José Luis Moreno who, with his wife Sally, was creating what would eventually become Maroma Resort and Spa. Here was beauty indeed, breathtaking beauty, and peace, as well as the inspiration to return to one of the passions of his youth: painting.
Seduced by the natural beauty of the bay and the reclusive lifestyle he had always craved, his visits lasted longer and longer. "What is so fascinating about painting every day is that, eventually, it is the painting which is doing itself, it's not me anymore." He began to paint the scenes he encountered on his daily rambles through the jungle and along the beaches. "We see beauty everywhere, but after a while we forget about it. That's why art is good. It captures a moment so that you can always return to it." During construction of the hotel, he lived in every room and created a painting for each of them. "I feel paintings should be shared. And I don't mean in a gallery. I like to see a painting hung where people can get used to it little by little."
Bertrand Castelli passed away on Friday August 1st, 2008, more that 90 painting enliven the walls throughout the rooms and common areas of this beautiful property. One of the most representative pieces of this artist for Maroma, is located in the main building and it is called “Maroma 1” and it is the first painting that reproduces Maroma’s beach when it was an unspoiled bay, where a forest of stately coconut palms promenades toward the turquoise sea, when you admire the painting it is easy to understand how the founder of Maroma, Jose Luis Moreno fell in love with the site.
The collection is for sale and you can acquire one of these master pieces of art on property.
To learn more about Bertrand Castelli please click here
