“I am very excited to be one of the 74 artworks accepted for this collection! Check out the press release and links to more information below.”
August 23, 2021 -- Houston Airports, with the support of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA), has made its largest one-time art acquisition that will be installed at Houston’s award-winning, four-star George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airports (HOU). The investment was directly made using Houston Airports’ Enterprise Fund – a non-taxpayer, self-sustaining revenue source.
“Art helps to define a city, and this is an important investment in our creative community,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. “This is the largest number of artworks the City has acquired, at one time, in its history, and, we will explore future opportunities to add artwork from Houston artists into the Civic Art Collection at Houston Airports.”
The selection of these 74 artworks underwent one of the most competitive processes to date. Eligibility for this opportunity was opened to include artists across the state to represent the diverse creative communities active in Houston and in Texas.
“The City's Civic Art Collection featured in Houston's Airports now includes the work of legendary Texas artists which truly reflects the artistic and cultural essence of our city and our state,” Houston Airports Director Mario Diaz said. “But more importantly, it adds artworks from underrepresented artists and showcases Houston’s airports as global air-service gateways.”
A committee of art professionals, artists and departmental representatives reviewed over 670 applications from artists across the state of Texas offering ready to hang “portable” artworks for Houston Airports to purchase. “Portable Works” are artworks that are not permanently sited and will be curated to enhance the aviation experience for passengers.