Travelers passing through William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) are in for a treat, or rather, an exhibition that amalgamates art, sustainability, and fashion into an unexpected but deeply engaging experience. In celebration of its 10th anniversary of the Repurpose with Purpose program, Southwest Airlines has teamed up with the non-profit design house Magpies & Peacocks for a unique fashion exhibition that turns decommissioned aircraft seat leather into high-fashion statements.
Located in the Hobby Airport Ticketing Lobby and the Central Concourse are two exhibits that are more than just pleasing to the eye – they carry, a message of environmental stewardship and innovative reuse. According to a Houston Chronicle report, Alton DuLaney, Curator of Public and Cultural Arts for Houston Airports said, "By showcasing sustainable fashion, we encourage our airport guests to pause, reflect, and engage with the deeper message of creativity, reuse, and environmental stewardship that these incredible artists aim to convey."
The combined effort of Southwest and Magpies & Peacocks highlights not just the airline's commitment to sustainability, but also its impact on communities. Over the years, Southwest has invested more than $2 million in grants and recycled 1.4 million pounds of leather for employment and skills training. "We love seeing our aircraft seat leather transformed into beautiful works of art after its time on our aircraft has come to an end – all to benefit the communities we serve," Ana Schwager, Senior Corporate Responsibility Program Manager at Southwest Airlines, told the Houston Chronicle.
Magpies & Peacocks, a known advocate for sustainable fashion, brings its creative expertise to the exhibit. "Creative collaboration is essential to driving sustainability, and our partnership with Southwest Airlines and Hobby Airport beautifully showcases how upcycling can inspire creativity, reduce waste and create meaningful change," Sarah-Jayne, Founder and Creative Director of Magpies & Peacocks, shared in a statement highlighted by fly2houston.com. The exhibit features seven unique, eco-conscious designs and is open for globe-trotters and eco-curious alike through October 2025.
