'ArtNight SpringHill Suites' Celebrates Local Artists

BETHESDA, Md., Dec. 2, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- SpringHill Suites, Marriott International's all-suite brand, brings art and inspiration to guests and neighbors this December as it kicks off "ArtNight SpringHill Suites" in Columbia, S.C. and downtown Chicago.  Partnering with local galleries, the hotels will host an evening featuring original pieces including sculptures, paintings and drawings while providing a relaxing space for artists and guests to network and appreciate great art.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/springhillsuites/41996/

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101202/MM10589 )

Designed to generate visibility for local artists, the gallery events provide an important connection between SpringHill Suites hotels and the art communities in their neighborhoods. The initiative is an extension of SpringHill Suites' core element that focuses on smart design.  From layout to décor, the brand offers a reenergizing place for travelers that enhance their experience on the road. SpringHill Suites plans to expand ArtNight SpringHill Suites to multiple cities next year, allowing guests to explore the local scene right in the hotel.

• The Columbia event will take place on Friday, December 3 from 3-7 p.m. at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia Downtown/The Vista and will feature artists from Vista Studios, a unique gallery for Columbia's visual artists.

• The Chicago event will take place on Tuesday, December 7 from 4-8 p.m. at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Downtown/River North the and will showcase student artwork from the sophomore class of Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), Chicago's first public high school for the arts.

The artists will be present at the showcases and available to speak about their work. Samples of artwork can be found here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/marriott/sets/72157625376531619/

"We are very excited about this program," said Callette Nielsen, Vice President and Global Brand Manager, SpringHill Suites by Marriott. "ArtNight SpringHill Suites allows us to celebrate incredible art as well as provide travelers with an evening of inspiration."

For more information, please visit www.marriottnewscenter.com or www.springhillsuites.com.

About SpringHill Suites

SpringHill Suites is ideal for business and leisure travelers who look for style and inspiration in their stay.  Featuring suites larger than traditional hotel rooms, SpringHill Suites makes it easy for guests to spread out and fully enjoy their space. Launched in November 1998, the brand currently has more than 270 locations in the United States and Canada.  SpringHill Suites along with over 3,100 Marriott-affiliated hotels worldwide, participate in Marriott Rewards, the guest reward program that allows its over 30 million members to earn points or airline miles for each dollar spent during each stay.

For more information, visit www.springhillsuites.com.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.