National Development, owner of the newly renovated Midtown Hotel, has completed a curated art installation in partnership with the Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt). The collaboration involved a competitive process resulting in the commission of individual pieces by eight MassArt students that will be part of the hotel’s permanent collection and displayed in common areas.
According to Eileen Malvesti, who managed the project for National Development, “We saw an opportunity to encourage young artists who are our neighbors on Huntington Avenue. Over 50 submissions were reviewed before the final pieces were selected.” The project gave participating artists hands-on experience navigating a professional commissioning process, from subject development to pricing.
Artists were invited to respond to the theme “Unconventional Boston,” interpreting the city through their own creative lens. The result was a varied collection of media ranging from painting to photography. The 11 selected works offer diverse perspectives on Boston, depicting familiar landmarks such as the Boston Public Garden and Tobin Bridge alongside scenes from neighborhood life and moments observed on the MBTA.
“We are excited to partner with the Midtown Hotel and National Development on this wonderful project that provides our students with a unique experience and a public platform for their work,” said MassArt President Mary K. Grant. “These students represent the incredible creative talent found at MassArt, and this project introduces their work to new audiences while offering visitors a fresh perspective on our city.”
The Midtown Hotel, originally opened in the 1960’s, underwent a full refresh of its rooms and common areas in late 2025. It is strategically located opposite the Prudential Center and in close proximity to MassArt, the Museum of Fine Arts, Symphony Hall, Back Bay and many local colleges. It is part of the MOD Collection by Sonesta. For more information, see www.midtownhotel.com.
About National Development
National Development is a vertically integrated real estate investment, development and management company. One of Boston’s leading firms for over 40 years, it invests throughout the Northeast, helping to shape communities across the region through a legacy of transformative properties. The firm has earned a reputation for delivering long-term value by thoughtfully navigating complexity through the creativity and deep experience of its team. National Development has developed and/or acquired more than 40 million square feet across a diverse range of property types and manages over $6 billion of assets through a series of fully discretionary real estate investment funds. Visit natdev.com
About Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt)
The only independent public college of art and design in the country, MassArt was founded in 1873 in response to a bold idea: art and design are essential to our daily lives, and key to improving our society and economy. What began as a school to teach drawing is today a bold, comprehensive art and design institution that spans 18 undergraduate and nine graduate programs, certificates, continuing education, and post-baccalaureate study. For more information, visit massart.edu.