HOUSTON - Passengers traveling through the newly expanded Terminal D at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) are now greeted by eight stunning art commissions showcasing Houston’s rich artistic diversity and the position of Houston Airports as a primary gateway to Latin America. The artwork, created by a mix of local and international artists, enhances the visual experience of the airport and reflects Houston’s cultural vibrancy. 

These eight new pieces are part of a broader initiative to install 12 site-specific commissions throughout the redeveloped international terminal, which will include the upcoming International Central Processor (ICP) that will open in two phases in 2025. The significant investment in public art is made possible through collaboration between Houston Airports and the Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA), with project support from Houston Arts Alliance. 

“Art is an integral part of the travel experience at Houston Airports,” said Alton DuLaney, Curator of Public and Cultural Arts for Houston Airports. “These installations tell the story of Houston. They reflect the diversity, creativity and the welcoming spirit for which Houston is known. It’s incredibly exciting to see these pieces finally come to life and to share them with the world.” 

The six installations at each new gatehouse, Gates D1 through D6, were created by Houston-area artists, reflecting the welcoming nature of Houston, a city known for its distinct culture and rich diversity. Internationally-known artists from Latin America created the site-specific artworks at each end of the new Terminal D-West Pier, highlighting Houston's position as a primary gateway to Latin America. 

 The artists commissioned for installations in the IAH Terminal D expansion are: 

•    Emilie Duval – Delightful Convergence (Gate D1) 
•    Gerardo Rosales – Blue Bayou (Gate D2) 
•    Reginald Adams – Sankofa (Gate D3) 
•    Lovie Olivia – Comforter (Gate D4) 
•    Leslie Gaworecki, Marlo Saucedo and  Emanual "Outspoken" Bean – Uniquely Houston (Gate D5) 
•    Nick Vaughan and Jake Margolin – Montrose (Gate D6) 
•    Carolina Caycedo – Nuestro Cosmos (D-West Hold Room) 
•    Regina Silveira – Paradise - (Knuckle where Terminal C meets Terminal D) 

The role of public art at Houston Airports is a vital element of its mission to create a unique, world-class travel experience and one that has earned Houston Airports award-winning recognition for having the World’s Best Airport Art Program for two consecutive years. 

The Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) plays a crucial role in managing Houston’s city-wide Civic Art Program and supporting the extensive collection at Houston Airports. Through MOCA’s leadership, Houston continues to build on its reputation as a city where creativity and culture thrive. 

“We're enthusiastic about the results of the deepened interdepartmental collaboration and artist support that has brought these artworks to the City of Houston’s growing art collection,” says Theresa Escobedo, manager of Houston’s Civic Art Program, “and we’re more than proud that the six artworks from Houston-area artists will be the very first to welcome international travelers arriving to Houston at IAH, and to host new artworks from world-renowned Latina artists. These artworks, together, demonstrate with gusto the vision and goals our program sets forth for showcasing the character of Houston through the arts.” 

The Houston Arts Alliance (HAA), a local nonprofit agency, also plays a key role in implementing the City of Houston’s vision for arts and culture through its support of Houston Civic Art Program. Working under the oversight of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, HAA helps commission and manage civic art investments that reflect the city’s vibrant diversity. In addition to public art projects, HAA also supports the arts community through special initiatives like disaster preparation and research, ensuring that Houston’s creative sector remains bold, productive and strong. 

"Houston is a city where creativity and diversity are celebrated in every form, and these new art installations at Bush Airport beautifully embody that spirit," said Grace Zuñiga, Civic Art Director for Houston Arts Alliance. "Each piece represents the rich cultural fabric of our community and the global connections that define our city. We are thrilled to see these works come to life and look forward to completing the four remaining projects, which will further enhance the travel experience and showcase Houston’s vibrant creative community to the world." 

A dozen site-specific art commissions and nearly 30 portable works will be displayed throughout the new international terminal when it fully opens in 2025.