Art transcends boundaries and is not a pursuit confined to any single entity; rather, it thrives through the active engagement of various sectors within society. Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa is among those art lovers who have taken a significant step in promoting Ethiopia’s cultural heritage to diplomatic communities, tourists and others.
This initiative provides a unique platform for both locals and visitors to experience the rich tapestry of Ethiopian culture. In line with this, our journalist had the opportunity to visit the cultural center, where numerous traditional Ethiopian artifacts are on display. Fendika’s Melaku Belay, an accomplished artist and cultural ambassador, showcased his performance to art lovers.
During the visit, a valuable interview with the hotel’s General Manager, Otto Kurzendorfer, shed light on the importance of this cultural initiative and its impact on the community. Through this Q&A, we delve into the significance of art in fostering cultural appreciation and understanding.
From my personal observation, I have noticed that the interior decoration of the hotel is adorned with traditional African arts, which is not commonly seen in most hotels in Addis Ababa. Could you please share the reasoning behind this choice?
Thank you for your insightful observation regarding our interior decoration. We take great pride in showcasing more than 60 art pieces from prominent Ethiopian artists throughout the hotel, including in our premium guest rooms. Each piece has been carefully selected to reflect unique stories, creating an inviting atmosphere that resonates with our guests.
Our commitment to integrating local culture, art, and way of life is of prime importance to us and aligns with our main initiative, Hyatt Loves Local. We believe that this integration not only enhances the guest experience but also celebrates the rich artistic heritage of Ethiopia. By featuring local artists, we aim to foster a deeper connection between our guests and the community, allowing them to appreciate the talent and creativity that thrives in this beautiful country.
Moreover, as trendsetters in our field, we continually strive to inspire others in the hospitality industry to embrace and support local artistry.
Recently, you provided the media with a press briefing about Fendika and the hotel’s contribution to the revival of its performances. What inspired you to support this initiative?
Our decision to support Fendika and its art performances stems from a deep appreciation for the diverse cultural expressions it embodies. Fendika serves as a melting pot of creativity, making it an ideal partner for us. We believe that collaboration is key and our partnership with Fendika reflects our commitment to fostering local culture, which significantly enhances the hospitality experience we aim to provide.
Does the hotel host any art exhibitions or showcases featuring Ethiopian artists? If so, could you tell us about any past or upcoming events?
Yes, our hotel actively hosts art exhibitions and showcases featuring Ethiopian artists. One of our most cherished initiatives is called “Addis Art’s Alive!” This event was launched shortly after the impact of COVID-19, in collaboration with Prolog, to support Ethiopian artists who faced significant challenges during the pandemic, as many galleries had to close down.
Over the past four years, we have hosted this event four times a year, providing a platform for artists to exhibit and sell their work free of charge for two weeks at a time. This initiative has been instrumental in helping artists generate much-needed revenue and regain a sense of purpose in their creative endeavors. We are proud to continue supporting the vibrant art community in Ethiopia through our newly launched gallery.
How do you think art enhances the guest experience at Hyatt Regency?
Art plays a significant role in enhancing the guest experience at Hyatt Regency by integrating local cultural expressions into our spaces. For example, we have a warm coffee ceremony at the entrance of our lobby that captures the welcoming spirit of Ethiopia.
These elements combine to create a unique atmosphere that mirrors the destination’s vibrant character. The hotel’s aesthetic is elevated with wooden wall panels and blue chandeliers shaped like the Meskel Bird, showcasing local art and fostering a stronger connection between guests and the local culture.
Is there a focus on sustainable practices in sourcing the artworks or materials used in the hotel’s decor?
Yes, sustainability is a core focus in sourcing the artworks and materials used in our hotel’s decor.
Our philosophy towards sustainability is holistic. For instance, we have implemented a plastic bottle-free initiative by investing in our glass water bottling plant. We also maintain multiple beehives on our Meskel terrace to source our own honey. Additionally, our roof garden allows us to grow microgreens for our culinary offerings.
Similarly, we approach art with the same commitment to sustainability. We prioritize investing in lasting and authentic artworks rather than purchasing mass-produced artifacts. This ensures that our decor reflects both our values and the local culture in a sustainable manner.
What are your future plans for integrating art into the hotel experience? Are there any specific artists or movements that you are excited about?
Our plan is to always remain true to our philosophy regarding art and the hotel experience.
Thank you.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
The Ethiopian Herald December 22/2024
