Hilton Garden Inn Sunderland get to the “art” of it

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(left to right) Ken Devine, artist Barrie Watson and Hilton Garden Inn Sunderland GM, Gareth Freeman

NORTH EAST artists are getting the opportunity to showcase their work to a wide audience – thanks to Hilton Garden Inn Sunderland.
The hotel has now partnered with city gallery, Twenty-Four North East, and is displaying artwork on the walls of the hotel on a regular basis.
And the first exhibition is already proving a success, with guests buying the original pieces to take home.
The hotel – opposite the Stadium of Light – is currently showcasing work by Sunderland artist Chris Cummings, whose work is inspired by SAFC and the city and its former industries.
The football themed paintings have been a huge hit with visitors to the hotel, many of whom have purchased them as a souvenir of their stay.
Ken Devine, one of the founders of Twenty-Four North East’s Fawcett Street Gallery, said the opportunity for artists to exhibit at the hotel was very exciting.
“The hotel has so many visitors which means the art is seen by a constantly changing audience,” said Ken, who started off his career as a fine art picture framer.
“We started Twenty-Four North East to give local artists the opportunity to showcase their work and now working with the hotel means we can give them another outlet along with the gallery.”
Gareth Freeman, General Manager of Sunderland Hilton Garden Inn, said the art has been a real hit.
“It’s a real talking point among our guests and of course if they go on to buy a piece then that’s fantastic for everyone,” he said.
“The hotel likes to support the local community in any way it can and being able to display the work of local artist not only helps them but also offers something unique and interesting for our visitors.”