The Surrey has unveiled a new contemporary art installation created by London-based design studio Jimmie Martin. Titled “Naughty Angels,” the custom series of decorative sculptures now complements the interiors and outdoor spaces of the luxury Manhattan property.
Inspired by the glamour and theatricality of the 2018 Met Gala, each sculpture in the collection is hand-painted and crafted from crushed stone blended with resin. The resulting works combine playful spirit with refined craftsmanship, bringing a touch of whimsy to the hotel’s public and private environments. Guests will find the sculptures throughout the lobby, in select presidential and penthouse suites, and within the hotel’s private roof garden.
Many of the pieces represent cheeky personality traits, while a handful are conceived as stylized nods to well-known fashion figures, including representations that recall Anna Wintour and Karl Lagerfeld. The sculptures are deliberately imperfect in finish and form, reflecting the designers’ intention to celebrate individuality and authenticity rather than classical perfection.
Pedro Dias, general manager of The Surrey, said the collaboration was a natural fit: “We are thrilled to be working with Jimmie Martin on this special project, which will be unveiled just in time for the highly anticipated seasonal opening of the hotel’s crown jewel, our Private Roof Garden. The Surrey has long been dedicated to supporting artists who have a truly spectacular vision, and Jimmie Martin’s boldly creative designs make them an ideal partner for the hotel.”
Jimmie Karlsson, co-founder of Jimmie Martin, described the collection’s concept and approach: “Working with The Surrey is always such a pleasure and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to share our ‘Naughty Angels’ with guests of the hotel. The collection is one of our favorites to date, and we hope that guests will enjoy them as much as we do. To me, imperfection is more beautiful than perfection, and we tried to convey that in our designs. I think the design and message behind the ‘Naughty Angels’ is something everyone can relate to because it’s honest and real — no one is perfect, and we are all naughty in our own way.”
The installation remains on display through the summer season, offering guests an engaging visual element as they experience the hotel’s spaces. For those interested in acquiring a piece, the sculptures are available for purchase through The Surrey’s VIP concierge service.