FACES | W Seattle
the phoenix room
Meet Phoenix
From the deserts of Arizona, Phoenix moved to Seattle to pursue a soccer scholarship at the University of Washington. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree, Phoenix decided to continue his medical career at the university, focusing on sports medicine. The close proximity to the school made University District the perfect place for Phoenix to reside.
About university district
University District is a college neighborhood with the University of Washington at its core. A sight of its own, the university proudly boasts a field of 29 fully bloomed cherry blossom trees each spring, drawing in locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by views of Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains, the University of Washington is a sight to see for sporting events or just a walk around campus.
The population of college residences and casual hangouts gives the University District a youthful, relaxed feel. A wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shopping complete the neighborhood. The University of Washington is a transportation hub with bus routes, link light rail, and boat access. University District is a 10 minute drive or light rail from W Seattle.
phoenix’s List
Immerse yourself in Phoenix’s world. Take a day trip or afternoon to explore his favorite dining experiences, shopping, and activities in University District.
Share Your Experience on Social
Tag @wseattle @morganzion_
Use the hashtags #faceswseattle #phoenixslistseattle
COFFEE | SIP HOUSE
BRUNCH | MR. WEST
HAPPY HOUR | MOUNTAINEERING CLUB
DINNER | JOEY UNIVERSITY VILLAGE
DRINKS | RACHEL’S GINGER BEER
SHOP | UNIVERSITY VILLAGE
LIVE MUSIC | MEANY CENTER
WALK | ARBORETUM WATERFRONT TRAIL
ACTIVITIES | UW SPORTING EVENTS
SCENERY | UW CHERRY BLOSSOMS
phoenix’s Seattle Playlist
While getting his Bachelor’s degree, Phoenix took a musical arts class to fulfill an art credit requirement. As part of the class he attended a concert at the university’s Meany Center. There he discovered Kenny G. As the acoustics filled the room, Phoenix fell in love with the calming nature of the smooth jazz. To relieve the stress of schoolwork, he can often be found studying to the relaxing tones of Kenny G’s saxophone.
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As the third best city in the U.S. for music fans, the city on everyone’s list for the best live music, and the place credited with the creation of its own music genre, Seattle is a music lover’s haven. W Seattle is one of many music destinations in the city, being the first hotel in North America with a W Sound Suite, a fully equipped private recording studio and creative space for artists. W Seattle also works with local artists to host weekly DJ performances and a monthly music series, W Seattle Presents First Fridays. In partnership with KEXP, First Fridays serves as an incubator for music acts on the cusp of bursting out of the Seattle scene. The first Friday of each month, First Fridays will showcase two live bands on the W Stage in the W Seattle Living Room.
Creating phoenix
Words from the artist
“I started creating Phoenix on an early Monday morning in the summer watching the sunrise from the 14th floor of W Seattle. I began my morning as I usually do with 15 minutes of meditation, followed by getting my coffee from Trace Market (black with a splash of almond milk). Once settled, I began to sketch and watch Phoenix come to life.”
My creative process
“As I sketch, I think about each character's story, their life, personality, interests, friends and what they would tell a visitor about why they love their city. After I have finished the sketch and story, I begin the mural process. I usually paint at night as it is my least busy time of day.
I like to snack while I paint on nuts, hummus and veggies and sometimes a cheeky glass of wine to fuel my chill, creative vibes. Each painting is stylistically meant to look like a large crosshatch sketch, giving each a gritty and unique personality. My intent is to draw guests in through the character’s eyes. The gaze invites the viewer to feel the personality, comfort and depth of each face.”
“Tapping into my creativity isn't always easy. When it comes to creating characters and their stories I really have to immerse myself into my creative process.
I hope our guests will enjoy the company of each face knowing it was made with intent, happiness and my love for seattle.”
— Morgan zion
SHARE YOUR PHOTOS FROM THE Phoenix ROOM
Share your experience in The Phoenix Room! Tag @wseattle @morganzion_ and use the hashtags #faceswseattle #phoenixslistseattle to be featured.
Faces Artwork
Shop original prints and hand-drawn artworks, including maps, coloring books, Faces prints, and original drawings from Faces at W Seattle.
Experience Seattle like a local
Discover the Emerald City like a Seattleite. Experience each Face’s favorite hidden gems.
*Please note that each face is an artistic creation of Morgan Zion. They are not based on real people.