At KBAA, we’re known for elevating everyday spaces. Few projects have embodied this approach more beautifully than our recent collaboration with The Ritz-Cartlon, Portland. From its inception in 2020 to opening in 2023, we worked side by side with hand-selected artists to create an art program that celebrates Oregon’s natural beauty. We’re thrilled to share some details about a selection of these artists whose works now grace the stunning luxury property.
Diana Beltran Herrera: Vibrancy in Paper
Behind the front desk in the hotel lobby, Diana Beltran Herrera’s sculptural installation, “Forest Birds,” brings four native bird species to life. Using mixed media, her detailed and colorful creations highlight the fragility and beauty of the natural world. Collaborating with our advisors gave Diana the space to explore how art could evoke a sense of wonder and connection.
“Bringing Oregon’s birds to life in a way that connects guests to the region was an incredible experience, made even better by KBAA’s support.” – Diana Beltran Herrera
Nardine Abraham: Topography in Texture
Nardine’s “Oregon Wood Map,” prominently displayed in the Residences Lobby, blends reclaimed wood and copper epoxy inlay to create an abstracted map of Portland. The Willamette River flows through the design, reflecting the natural rhythms of the region. Another one of her pieces “Organic Circle” stuns in the lobby above the fireplace, and also utilizes her wood milling skillset. Nardine valued our team’s collaborative approach, which brought design precision and artistic expression together seamlessly.
“KBAA’s vision to merge art and architecture allowed me to craft something truly unique that honors Portland’s landscapes.” – Nardine Abraham
A work in progress of “Oregon Wood Map.” See finished piece in hero image at the top of this blog.
Rachel Austin: Mapping Portland’s Essence
Rachel Austin’s love for cartography and vintage maps shines through in her piece, “Portland Cartography.” Her work, featured in the elevator corridor, weaves acrylic paint with collaged maps to depict the Multnomah Falls area in a contemporary, textured style. Rachel described working with our KBAA team as a rewarding process that allowed her to explore Portland’s unique geography through her artistic lens.
“Creating a piece that bridges my love for maps and Portland’s landscapes was a joy, and collaborating with KBAA brought this vision to life in such an exciting way.”
– Rachel Austin
Diana Majumdar: Layers of the Pacific Northwest
In the Club Lounge, Diana Majumdar’s mixed-media painting on wood panels creates a serene and immersive atmosphere. Inspired by Oregon’s Douglas Fir forests, Diana’s intricate composition captures native tree branches and birds with lifelike detail. Working with KBAA, Diana relished the opportunity to bring an authentic slice of the Pacific Northwest indoors.
“The process of identifying the right species of trees and birds was as much about accuracy as it was about creating an emotional connection to nature.” – Diana Majumdar
David Rice: A Contemporary Fauna Vision
“Immune II,” “Oregon Bluebird,” and “Kyolo” by David Rice are each displayed throughout the property, from the Owner’s Lounge to the elevator corridor to the hotel conference area. David’s style merges the natural and artificial, using geometry and bold colors to depict Oregon’s fauna in new and exciting ways. Working with our team allowed David to explore how his modern approach could complement the hotel’s timeless design.
“Collaborating with KBAA to celebrate Oregon’s wildlife in a contemporary style was incredibly fulfilling.” – David Rice
We are so proud of our artists’ work for this project. Each piece is truly a labor of love and heartfelt homage to the Pacific Northwest. Flip through the pages of our latest ELEVATE by KBAA to see even more detail about this incredible project.
