The Intricate World of Custom-Made Artwork for Superyachts

Creating art for superyachts is no simple task. Unlike the stark white walls of traditional galleries, these floating canvases present a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The curvaceous hull, varying light conditions, humidity, and the constant motion of the sea, all create a unique canvas which demands a special approach to art creation and installation. 

One vessel that offers its guests a unique immersion in artistic creativity is ECLIPSE: a superyacht with a staggering LOA of 162.5m, boasting nine decks. ECLIPSE exemplifies the integration of art and function; at 162 metres long, this floating palace posed unique challenges for designer Terence Disdale. To tackle the potential confusion of navigating such a massive boat, the owners employed an artistic solution. Different artists were commissioned to create unique works of art for each lobby, giving each deck its own distinct flavour. This not only solved a practical problem but also transformed the yacht into a floating, vertical art gallery, with each level offering a new aesthetic experience. 

One standout piece is a seven-part wooden sculpture, hand-drawn by Disdale and manufactured in Japan. This attention to detail extends throughout the yacht, from stunning artworks to more functional pieces like cabin sideboards, designed in Europe and crafted in Chile. Disdale's design philosophy emphasised pure relaxation, achieved through a warm consistent colour palette of ochre-like shades, skillfully applied to prevent monotony. This approach balances luxury with understated elegance, allowing the owner to enjoy substantial private space without impacting the guest experience. ECLIPSE thus stands as a testament to the power of art and design in creating a unique, functional, and deeply personal maritime environment.

This approach to yacht art requires a deep understanding of the vessel's naval architecture and interior design. Artists must work in close collaboration with naval architects and yacht interior designers, considering factors such as lighting, temperature, space constraints, weight, and the overall ambience of each area. The result of this is art that doesn't just hang on walls, but becomes an integral part of the yacht's identity. 

There is a psychology to be spoken about when it comes to nautical aesthetics. Selecting art or having art made for a superyacht is far from a simple matter of personal taste. Art onboard a superyacht does more than fill wall space; it has the power to transform the entire atmosphere of the vessel. A well-chosen piece can create a focal point, and evoke specific emotions in different areas of the yacht. It's a process that reflects the owner’s personality, aspirations and the desired ambience of the yacht. A serene seascape might evoke tranquillity in the owner’s suite, while a bold abstract piece could stimulate conversation in the main salon. Some yacht owners go a step further, commissioning pieces that reflect their personal journeys, hobbies, or philanthropic endeavours, adding a layer of depth and meaning to the yacht's interior.

This nuanced approach to art selection and creation has given rise to a new strand of the profession: the yacht art consultant. These specialists possess not only a keen eye for art but also a deep understanding of the complexity of yacht interiors. Their role involves curating art collections that resonate with the owners taste while complementing the yacht's design, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the vessel. 

The market for yacht art has become a unique niche in the art world. Unlike the traditional art market, where an artist's reputation and historical context often dictate price, yacht art is valued primarily for its suitability for a specific space. This has led to the emergence of artists who specialise in creating works for these unconventional maritime environments.

Whilst the traditional art market might experience fluctuations, the demand for yacht art remains relatively steady. The ultra-wealthy clientele that commission these works are less affected by economic downturns, ensuring a consistent market for luxury goods, including bespoke art. However, the pricing structure for yacht art is often as custom as the pieces themselves, determined by factors such as the artist's reputation, the artworks complexity and the client's budget. 

Several superyachts have gained renown for their exceptional art collections. ECLIPSE, as mentioned earlier, is a prime example with its deck-by-deck art journey. Another notable example is the motor yacht PELORUS, which boasts an impressive collection of contemporary art that rivals many private galleries.

Heeson’s SPARTA also joins this group; inspired by the elements - earth, air and water, each deck on SPARTA showcases a unique artistic inspiration. Earth is represented through organic textures and natural minerals, while air is depicted through the creation of a light and airy atmosphere. Finally, water finds its expression through calming blues and fluid forms. This artistic journey through SPARTA’s decks is a prime example of how superyacht aesthetics are enhanced through creative freedom, pushing the boundaries of maritime design and luxury.

As the superyacht industry continues to grow, so too does the potential for yacht art to establish itself as a distinct and valuable asset class. While it may not yet have the same level of prestige as traditional art collectibles, its unique nature and the exclusivity of its creation make it an intriguing prospect for collectors.

Artists are challenged to think beyond the confines of traditional galleries, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in art creation and installation. As superyachts continue to grow in size and sophistication, so too will the art that adorns them, creating floating masterpieces that are as much a joy to explore as the open seas they traverse. These vessels serve as floating inspirations, demonstrating the potential for yacht art to become a status symbol in its own right. As the industry continues to grow, we can expect to see even more extraordinary art collections gracing the high seas.