Heritage Hotel Zagreb

The beautiful illustrations created for Heritage Hotel Zagreb in Dubrovnik are the work of academic artists Ana Sladetić Šabić and Miran Šabić. Located in Lapad, the hotel first opened its doors in 1932. Dubrovnik and Lapad have long inspired poets and writers, with their beauty celebrated in the works of renowned authors such as Ivo Vojnović, Ivan Gundulić, Marin Držić, and Junije Palmotić. Today, that same natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and Mediterranean spirit continue to inspire moments of elegance, tranquillity, and reflection.

The artistic concept behind the illustrations builds upon the hotel's visual identity, itself inspired by the manuscripts of Ivo Vojnović. The illustrations portray the hotel, its distinctive architecture, and the rich Mediterranean vegetation that flourishes in its garden. Mediterranean hog fennel, bitter orange, Canary Island date palm, rosemary, Dubrovnik rock samphire, agave, tansy, magnolia, abelia, and yucca become defining elements of the visual language. By bringing together nature and artistic creation, the illustrations celebrate the poetic character of Lapad and the unique atmosphere of Heritage Hotel Zagreb.

The creative process began with a fountain pen, using pen and ink on paper. The artists drew inspiration from the letters once exchanged in Dubrovnik and from the writings of poets and authors who described their experiences of this remarkable place, its lush Mediterranean landscape, the soothing rhythm of the waves, and the thoughts and emotions awakened by its surroundings.

Ink drawing on paper is perhaps the most immediate form of drawing because every mark is permanent. Mistakes cannot be erased, making each line the result of careful thought and deliberate intention. Much like writing with a fountain pen, drawing in ink leaves an indelible trace of ideas, emotions, and concentration. These qualities lie at the heart of every new work.