One of the ways that Academy of Art University distinguishes itself is by providing students with opportunities to collaborate with institutions throughout San Francisco regarding their art. This was recently demonstrated by the partnership the University established with the Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SoMa. The hotel recently dedicated itself to working more closely with local institutions and the arts community to help demonstrate the rich heritage of the arts in the city.

As part of the partnership, the Hyatt commissioned student work from Academy of Art University across a variety of different artistic methods including sculpture, painting, photography, and landscape architecture. The exhibition was planned to coincide with the hotels’ rebranding and redevelopment as well as Hyatt’s ongoing commitment to the arts. “We couldn’t be more proud to showcase the evocative and inspiring talents of the Academy’s students within Hyatt Regency’s remarkable new hotel,” said Dr. Elisa Stephens, president of Academy of Art University, on the launch of the project.

Artwork from active students and alumni was commissioned for the hotel’s ground-floor lobby and reception space as well as bar and lounge area, check in, Regency club, and suites. Displays were also incorporated across over 20 spaces totaling 30,000 square feet dedicated to special events, meetings, and private functions. “It is truly an honor to partner with the talented teams at Academy of Art University and display their incredible student and alumni pieces throughout our property,” said Mark Benefield-Tuten, director of sales and marketing, Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SoMa.

With so many spaces in need of original artwork and design elements, Academy of Art University was able to tap into a deep trove of internal talent from a variety of different schools. Representatives from the Schools of Fine Arts, Architecture, Photography, and Interaction & UX/UI Design provided artworks to be used throughout the hotel. From minimal elements to mixed media storytelling, photography was provided by alumna and fine art photographer Dora Duan, current master’s student Alana Burke Colville, commercial photographer and alumna Claire Nitchman, and visual artist and alumni Tirda Aghakhani.

The contributions were not limited to photographs, however. Painter, alumni, and member of Mikihasi, a San Francisco Korean Artists Group, Ajin No placed several paintings on display as part of the exhibition. Exploring the built environment and its intersection with nature, sculpture and art from Benjamin Schindel was placed on display, representing Academy of Art University’s School of Architecture. Incorporating techniques for both two-dimensional and three-dimensional works, mixed media artist and Academy of Art faculty member Brandie Grogan contributed sculptural elements to the exhibition. Additionally, art from 2D/3D designer and alumni Egor Rose and steel sculptures from 2019 graduate Herbert Martinez are also on display.

Overall, the showcase throughout the new Hyatt hotel is representative of a wide range of artistic talents and perspectives inspired by San Francisco and the community at large. The framed and mounted art is currently on display in the newly opened hotel for guests and the public to enjoy.

Academy of Art University has a storied history of providing industry-based curriculum learning to artists, designers and creatives. Students can choose from more than 120 accredited degree options, all taught by instructors who are experienced professionals in a course of study. Academy coursework is a hands-on experience that combines a solid foundation of core skills with the freedom for students to express themselves creatively.