The road becomes a canvas: Houston Airports spotlights city’s rolling works of art

Where else can you spot a bedazzled armadillo before takeoff? Only in Houston.

March 24, 2025

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Karmadillo Art Car now on display at IAH

"Karmadillo" by Rebecca Bass

At most airports, travelers rush past terminals with their eyes fixed on gate numbers and departure screens. But in Houston, a layover might just offer a brush with surreal whimsy.

Now in its second year, a partnership between Houston Airports and the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art is transforming the airport experience with unexpected moments of creative delight. At George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), travelers are greeted not just by taxi queues or luggage carts but by gleaming, rhinestone-encrusted sedans and whimsical, winged roadsters. These are Art Cars—mobile masterpieces that reflect the city’s bold, imaginative spirit.

Each season brings a new installation. At Bush Airport’s Terminal A ticketing lobby, visitors can now enjoy “Karmadillo” by artist Rebecca Bass. It’s an armadillo-inspired creation that blurs the line between sculpture and sedan. At Hobby Airport, “Fruitmobile” by artist Jackie Harris offers a playful burst of color and nostalgia.

Karmadillo Art Car on display at IAH — *"Karmadillo" is now on display in the IAH Terminal A Ticketing Lobby.*

“These Art Cars instantly change the energy of a space,” said Alton DuLaney, curator of public art for Houston Airports. “Passengers stop in their tracks. Kids smile. People take photos and share them. That’s the power of public art—it connects people, even in a busy airport environment.”

Each vehicle is a veteran of Houston’s world-famous Art Car Parade, the largest of its kind. By displaying these cars year-round, Houston Airports and the Orange Show invite visitors to engage with the city’s creative culture from the moment they arrive.

Fruitmobile Art Car on display at HOU — *"Fruitmobile" is now on display in the HOU Ticketing Lobby.*

“Whether you’re a traveler passing through or a loved one picking someone up, you’re greeted with art that’s uniquely Houston,” DuLaney said. “It’s a joyful, memorable experience—and a great introduction to our city.”

In a time when many airports feel indistinguishable, Houston’s Art Cars offer a meaningful sense of place. They remind travelers that travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s also about the experience along the way. And in Houston, that experience begins with creativity, culture and a distinct celebration of the city’s artistic spirit.

The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art will host the 38th annual Houston Art Car Parade and Festival April 10 thru April 13. The parade is scheduled for April 12 at 2 p.m.