In a move to both enhance the traveler experience and celebrate the local art scene, Chicago’s Midway International Airport has introduced a series of new public art installations. These works, sourced from the City of Chicago's Public Art Collection, were welcomed with a dedication event heralded by Mayor Brandon Johnson, in conjunction with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), according to a recent announcement from the city.
Blazing a trail to more prominently feature Chicago's diversity and cultural richness, the installations include a series of photographs on glass by Jonathan Michael Castillo and a group of paintings by Steve Musgrave. Mayor Johnson was quick to highlight the installations as embodiments of "our resilience, diversity and vibrant culture" and praised DCASE Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth's "visionary leadership." In turn, Hedspeth noted the Public Art Collection as 'The people’s art collection,' aiming to freely reflect Chicago’s vast artistic communities, something she explained in a statement obtained by the city's press release.
The artwork also extends to sculptures and paintings from the Chicago Public Library’s public art collection. Some of the pieces travelers will encounter include Roger Brown, Alison Saar, and even a model of Anish Kapoor’s "Cloud Gate." The airport's new aesthetic gives a nod to the city's cultural significance, as CDA Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee underlined, saying, "For millions of passengers, Midway is their first impression of Chicago." Her comments were shared in a city press release, emphasizing the arts as a fitting introduction to the city's essence.
DCASE's Public Art team is currently managing nearly 80 public art projects throughout the city, with a budget of $11 million that spans across 26 wards. The program also includes neighborhood murals that to interpret themes such as democracy and diversity while celebrating Chicago’s Blues and House music legacies. Details on these projects can be found at the city's Public Art website. These efforts align with the city's longstanding commitment to public art, having been among the first to mandate that a percentage of the cost of public buildings be set aside for public art as far back as 1978.
Art lovers and casual visitors can experience this legacy up close. Whether you're arriving from another city or just passing through, Midway's new additions invite you to enjoy the artistic stories woven into Chicago's vibrant culture.
