Sunport Expands Art Collection with New Works
Acquisition marks largest investment in art in Sunport history
ALBUQUERQUE – Travelers through the Albuquerque International Sunport will be enjoying new art this Summer. The Sunport announced the selection of four new installations by New Mexican artists to be featured at its brand-new food hall and throughout the concourses. The new collection will offer travelers a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the Land of Enchantment, known for its vibrant cultural diversity, natural beauty, and deep-rooted artist traditions. The works will also showcase a range of mediums, from sculpture to paintings and mixed media works.
“This Sunport renovation is a once in a generation project and a unique opportunity to work with local artists and showcase our community’s culture and creativity,” said Mayor Keller. “Our airport is known for its iconic architecture, for the disctinctive brick floors that suitcases click across, and now, for the incredible art collection.”
As part of its Dream of Flight terminal renovation, the Sunport allocated $3.2 million—3.5% of its total renovation budget—to support this art initiative. In comparison, most public works projects allocate about 1% of their capital project budget to public art. The acquisition includes five additional installations, which were introduced at the Sunport in December 2023, and it stands as the largest investment in art in the Sunport’s history.
Selected work and artists:
- We are of the Mountain, by JP; Mixed-media mural; Installation to begin in Spring 2025
- “Po’pay, Leader of the 1680 Pueblo Revolt,” by Virgil Ortiz; Metal Sculpture; Projected fabrication/installation is approximately 6-7 months.
- Of Skies and Songs, by Michael Toya; Vinyl Mural; Selected for the Food Concessions Bulkhead Mural; Projected fabrication/installation is approximately 10-14 weeks.
- Flight Through Time, by Sky Candy LLC; Low-rider inspired airplane installation; Projected fabrication/installation is approximately 12-14 months.
“Art is a powerful way to engage and inspire people, especially in a space like an airport terminal where passengers often experience a range of emotions,” said Aviation Director Richard McCurley. “Our new installations are designed to provide a moment of pause and reflection amidst the fast pace of travel. We’re excited to present these new works by local artists, which will highlight creativity, diversity, and innovation.”
Travelers will be encouraged to explore the artworks, take photos and connect with the stories behind the pieces via interactive QR codes to be placed near each installation. These codes will provide background information on the artists and the inspiration behind their works.
The City’s Office of Public Art received a total of 384 submissions for this project.
Note: These art awards are pending City Council approval.
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About the Albuquerque International Sunport
Owned and operated by the City of Albuquerque’s Aviation Department, The Albuquerque International Sunport is New Mexico’s largest commercial airport, welcoming over 5 million passengers each year. Served by eight major carriers, three cargo carriers and one commuter airline, the Sunport offers nonstop service between ABQ and 30 destinations, with worldwide connectivity. The Albuquerque International Sunport is the Gateway of New Mexico.
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Artist Statements
TSA North Wall Mural:
“We are of the Mountain will challenge perception, instill cultural resilience, open inter-cultural exchange, create beauty, engage occupants, stimulate growth, and serve as a calming focal point,” said J P 제피 [s(he), (he)r* / he, him / they, them]. “The ‘We’ in the title is inclusive of the people and place of Albuquerque, which has a mountain range defining its landscape.”
TSA Queueing Sculpture:
“This sculpture is a steel embodiment of Po’pay, Leader of the 1680 Pueblo Revolt” said Virgil Ortiz. “A representation of history and connection with the land, people, and rich culture. Aged, time-tested, and colored over time, reflective of the environment in a symbiotic relationship with earth, changing over time as people walk by in an ever-evolving world.”
Concessions Bulkhead Mural:
“I am a direct descendant to the first people who walked and thrived in this place we call the Land of Enchantment” said Michael Toya. “These designs and concepts have passed on from generation to generation and I would like to share them with travelers who can embrace them and have a glimpse of what our culture has to offer.”
T-Connector Installation:
“Flight Through Time envisions a fleet of multiple lowrider-inspired airplanes cruising through the air” said artist team Sky Candy. “Inspired by lowrider culture and New Mexico’s rich artistic heritage, these cruising airplanes will be visually arresting, culturally significant, and immersive for travelers at the Albuquerque Sunport