LAST year’s winner of the Red Bull Art of Can, Duane Bennett, could never have known when he created his iconic Raging Bull design for the competition that it would charge forth and claim all the top prizes. Winner of the People’s Choice Award, the Media Choice Award, and the overall competition, Bennett’s design fended off his competitors and scored him a once-in-a-lifetime getaway to the famous Hôtel de Glace — a hotel made entirely out of ice that is reconstructed and redesigned every winter — located on the grounds of Station Touristique Duchesnay in Quebec, Canada.

The Auberge Duchesnay is a former forestry centre now operated as a resort on the shores Lake Saint-Joseph, just 30 minutes west of Quebec City.

Bennett truly indulged during his two all-expenses-paid nights at the Auberge Duchesnay, with one being spent at the Hôtel de Glace, enjoying the hot tub and sauna, and even participating in a day of winter activities, including dog-sledding and ice-carving. It was a world of new experiences for the young designer, who brought his sister, Teasea, along for the ride as his guest. They experienced some of the resort’s signature treats, like a welcome drink served in glasses made entirely out of ice, lavish buffets and a gift basket including cider, chocolates and handmade ice flutes. Bennett was blown away by the entire experience.

“What can I say? It was amazing, an adventure unlike any we have experienced before. It was something I would definitely do again. Everyone was incredible, from the taxi driver at the airport, who spoke not a word of English, right through to the staff at the hotel; their warm-hearted welcome highlighted what seemed like a purely winter experience, it was a warm, tropical friendly one like the people of our country.”

Bennett is known locally for his eccentric and unique jewellery and accessory designs at Reve Jewellery.