Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's award-winning travel program and official hotel partner for the Australian Open, is gearing up to host members and guests at the Marriott Bonvoy Hospitality Suite at Melbourne Park, home of the world tennis Grand Slam event over the next two weeks.

In a celebration of authentic Australia and Marriott's global theme 'where can we take you', guests will be inspired by the beauty and significance of Australia's indigenous heritage. First nations artist Gerard Black has created a mural to connect viewers to the important ancestral stories of Australia's living indigenous culture. The mural, hand painted by Gerard onsite in the hospitality suite will be donated to a selected indigenous charity post the tournament.

Sean Hunt, Area Vice President Australia, New Zealand & Pacific of Marriott International said, “Marriott International will be turning on a showcase of carefully curated Australian experiences at Melbourne Park during the Australian Open, kicking off today. The Marriott team is very excited to be hosting Members and guests throughout the tournament, we'll be cheering for our Marriott Ambassador, and world number one, Ash Barty along with all the world's top players. We wish Ash all the very best in her quest to win the coveted title this year.”

“The Marriott Bonvoy Hospitality Suite will celebrate a contemporary Australia that acknowledges the important heritage of our first nations and multicultural influences, inviting guests to explore the unique locations and experiences that reflect the rich fabric of Australian culture along with a taste of Marriott's first-class service.”

A bespoke 3m x 3m mural by First Nations artist Gerard Black will be the highlight feature -the artwork investigates language, land and culture told by the artist on a meta-level. Gerard will be presenting two artists talks throughout the tournament, to walk guests through his  interdisciplinary creative expression 'With Yawutung Wakulda Barrayga: A Journey of Connection.

Australian touchpoints throughout the suite will celebrate a modern Australia that acknowledges the heritage of First Nations while highlighting the multi-cultural layers which are entrenched in the unique and authentic Australian way of living.

The grand entrance to the suite will feature a large native floral installation, guests will be greeted by hosts dressed in iconic Australian label Aje and invited to enjoy a taste of Marriott Bonvoy's signature hospitality. Menus featuring native herbs and garnishes including salt bush, lemon myrtle, lemongrass, pepperberry and native mint will be served.

Over the summer of tennis, Marriott Bonvoy members will have access to more than 120 unique Marriott Bonvoy MomentsTM which give them exclusive access to money-can't-buy events and experiences, including iconic trophy photo opportunities and the potential to meet sporting legends including Todd Woodbridge and Sam Groth as they drop into the Marriott Bonvoy Hospitality Suite.

“We are proud to be hosting the world's top sporting talent and their extensive fan base this summer at our portfolio of Melbourne properties including the recently-opened Marriott Melbourne Hotel Docklands, W Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne, Sheraton Melbourne and Marriott Melbourne. We look forward to creating memorable moments for Marriott Bonvoy members as they experience our signature hospitality, both courtside and post-match,” said Sean Hunt.

About the Australian Open

The Australian Open is the biggest sports and entertainment event in the world in January. Staged at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Australia, the AO is the first of the four Grand Slam tennis events held each year, preceding the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. Tennis Australia promotes tennis participation, facilitates player development, stages local and international events and invests in facilities and programs to grow the sport across Australia.

About Marriott Bonvoy® 

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enrol for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.  

Gerard Black Artist Statement

Yawutung Wakulda Barrayga

Journey of Connection

My name is Gerard Black I am a proud Worimi man from the North Coast of NSW and I was brought up on Wadawurrung country in Torquay.

I would like to welcome you to my artwork 'Yawutung Wakulda Barrayga; A Journey of Connection'.  This work was created to enable everyone to enjoy a safe place, and immerse themselves in the energy of my ancestors. A place where you can find inspiration to connect to the stars, sky, sea and land, and take that moment of connection with you wherever you may go.

Please look into my artwork, close your eyes and feel the energy.

What is calling you? Was it the land? Was it the sea? Was it the wind or the stars?

Please accept the energy of my culture and my channelling of my ancestors through my artwork,

Take this on your own journey of connection with an open heart, And see this beautiful country with your spirit.

Gerard Black, Artist

@baiyamiart

This commission has been facilitated by Agency Projects and presents an important collaboration between First Nations artist Gerard Black and the Marriott Bonvoy.

Agency Projects celebrates and promotes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, culture and people on a local, national and international scale through the initiation and facilitation of ethical and sound investments into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led projects and partnerships.

@agencyprojects