MAY 12, 2008. The Wyndham Grand Collection, an ensemble of one-of-a-kind hotels in unique destinations around the world, was celebrated here today with the unveiling of commissioned illustrations by British artist David Downton. The artwork will be on display through June at the Wyndham Grand London Chelsea Harbour hotel, where today's ceremony was held.

Downton is known best for his fashion illustrations and work with Vogue, the British Fashion Council, Christian Dior, Harrods and the British Academy Film Awards. Wyndham Hotel Group International asked him to create illustrations inspired by eight of the Wyndham Grand Collection hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Africa as well as a representation of the entire collection.

'We commissioned David Downton to create artwork inspired by our distinctive properties and the destinations in which they're located and the culture that surrounds them,' said Sean Worker, Wyndham Hotel Group International managing director and senior vice president. 'The result is an art collection that epitomizes The Wyndham Grand Collection's sophistication, elegance and uniqueness and gives our guests a glimpse of some of the most colorful and exciting destinations in the world.'

Downton said he was inspired by views from the guest room windows of Wyndham Grand Collection hotels where he stayed as well as by the style of each city's inhabitants.

'The discreet touches, such as the silhouette of a church, a bridge or a nation's flag hidden in the illustrations, are a nod to the hotels' locations and connect the viewer to the heritage of the space,' said Downton. 'Art is more interesting than a photograph because it can evoke a feeling for a place, about a place, about the people that place wants to attract, while also allowing for different interpretations by the audience.'

For further information about The Wyndham Grand Collection or to book at stay, please visit www.thewyndhamgrandcollection.com.