Art, Travel, and Vision: Sharon Rene’s Journey at the Anaheim Hilton

Walking through the lobby of the Hilton Anaheim, near the FedEx and Guest Services desks, you’ll find a selection of my travel photography on display—images that have become a powerful representation of my journey as an artist and entrepreneur. These photographs, taken in places like Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Ubud, Bali, Indonesia, are more than just art—they are milestones in a larger narrative that connects creativity, travel, and global impact.

From Editorial Dreams to Travel Photography

My original aspiration was to create editorial work, to tell stories through a lens that could influence and inspire. However, as my path unfolded, it became clear that travel photography was a gift that would not only shape my artistic vision but also expand my goals in unexpected ways. Capturing the essence of different cultures, landscapes, and people became a passion that I couldn’t ignore. This passion ultimately led me to embrace the role of a travel advisor with my agency, Soulful Escapes Travel.

The Universal Alignment: Hilton, Addis Ababa, and Beyond

The Anaheim Hilton has been a pivotal partner in this journey. As one of the top affiliate hotels in my network, Hilton has a unique connection to my work—especially now, with a new Hilton hotel recently opening in Addis Ababa. The universal alignment between my art, my work as a travel advisor, and my broader goals with the Bee+Hive Artist Collective (BHAC) is remarkable.

During my residency at the Anaheim Hilton, my photographs from Addis Ababa and Barong Blue from Ubud, Bali, have offered guests a visual journey through these vibrant locations. This exhibition is the first of its kind at this particular Hilton, marking a significant milestone in my career.

Building a Global Vision with BHAC

The Juneteenth exhibition, curated by in-house curator Britt Samuels and supported by advisory board members Sharon Rene, Anabella Pritchard, and Michelle Hernandez of the Orange Community Arts Guild (OCAG), was more than just a showcase of art; it was part of a larger, collective vision. As the head of Bee+Hive Artist Collective (BHAC), my goal is to establish our presence worldwide, creating opportunities for artists to thrive and for art to inspire across borders. Through the Benefactor plan at BHAC, we aim to support qualified artist members and partners by offering curated travel destinations designed for creativity and wellness—destinations that align perfectly with my work as a travel advisor.

The opening of the new Hilton Addis Ababa represents more than just another destination—it symbolizes the power of alignment and intention in my work. This connection highlights the importance of creating spaces where art, travel, and entrepreneurship intersect, paving the way for future initiatives that will benefit both artists and the global community.

Looking Forward

As I continue to develop Soulful Escapes Travel and expand BHAC's reach, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. The journey from displaying my work at the Anaheim Hilton to establishing a global network of creativity and wellness is just beginning. With the support of partners like Hilton and the incredible community within BHAC, I believe we are on the path to something truly transformative.