As part of the ongoing Journey With AUS airport expansion, 23 artist-led teams have been commissioned to create new public art installations at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). These artists were selected through the City of Austin Art in Public Places Program and will soon begin a community engagement effort aimed at gathering input from travelers, airport staff, and local residents.
Starting this month, travelers passing through AUS will have opportunities to meet some of the artists during in-terminal activities scheduled for December 8-12. Information tables will be set up where passengers can interact with the artists and respond to prompts about their experiences.
After these initial events inside the terminal, the artist-led teams plan to hold additional outreach activities outside the airport. These include open houses and community activations designed to connect with local residents and subject matter experts. To further broaden participation, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport’s Austin Aviation team has launched a digital survey for all Austin residents and airport customers. The survey is available online until January 31, 2026.
The projects are funded through an ordinance that directs a portion of eligible Capital Improvement Project budgets toward permanent public art installations. According to AUS officials:
“Zero Local Taxpayer Dollars: All airport art is paid for through airport expansion project funding. This capital comes strictly from airport revenue (generated by airline fees, concessions, and parking) and airport revenue bonds. No local Austin taxpayer dollars are collected for or contributed to the artist-led projects.”
Of the 23 selected teams, most are based in Texas with half residing in Austin itself. Only three teams come from out of state; these national artists have committed to collaborating with local creative professionals via subcontracting.
The initiative also builds on connections made during this summer’s first-ever AUS Public Art Makers Expo, which brought together artists with local fabricators and technology specialists.
The scope of these projects ranges from large-scale installations to smaller elements throughout interior and exterior spaces at AUS. Some works may serve as immersive experiences or function as wayfinding landmarks within the terminal complex. Notable past examples include “Interimaginary Departures” by Brooklyn-based artist Janet Zweig.
Austin Aviation is coordinating closely with both the Art in Public Places Program team—part of the city’s Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment department—and other stakeholders involved in planning and construction for the expansion program.
Community members interested in following updates on future engagement events can subscribe to newsletters such as Stay in Tune or Community Connections or follow AUS on social media.
