Houston Airports is elevating the passenger experience once again. This February, renowned Houston caricature artist Texas Tim Webb will be stationed at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), sketching travelers for complimentary keepsakes. It’s the latest addition to the Houston Airports Public Art Program, recognized as the World’s Best Airport Art program for its innovative and immersive approach to public art.

Texas Tim, a fixture in Houston’s art scene for more than 50 years, is known for his ability to capture personalities with humor and style. His exaggerated yet expressive portraits blend skill and entertainment, turning everyday moments into memorable works of art.

"A caricature isn’t just a drawing—it’s a moment frozen in time," said Alton DuLaney, curator of public art for Houston Airports. "Texas Tim’s work brings an interactive, personal touch to our airports, allowing passengers to engage with art in a fun and unexpected way."

Art that travels

Caricature art, with its ability to amplify a person’s most distinct features, is a perfect fit for an airport environment. Passengers can sit for a quick sketch while waiting for a flight, turning downtime into an engaging and entertaining experience.

Liliana Rambo, chief terminal management officer for Houston Airports, has long advocated for bringing a caricature artist to the terminals. "I’ve wanted this for years because it creates a real connection between our airports and the people who pass through them," Rambo said. "It’s a lighthearted, joyful experience—exactly what travel should be."

Expanding the Art Ambassador Program

Texas Tim’s presence is just one way Houston Airports is expanding its Art Ambassador Program in 2025. Joining him is another Houston icon, Emanuelee “Outspoken” Bean, the city’s fifth poet laureate, who will engage passengers through the power of spoken word.

Houston Airports launched the Art Ambassador Program in 2023 to connect travelers with immersive, interactive art experiences. Its inaugural ambassador, Thedra Cullers, captivated passengers with her mobile art cart, offering hands-on arts and crafts activities.

Building on that success, the 2025 program introduces new dimensions of artistic expression, bringing in artists who engage passengers in unexpected, memorable ways.

Outspoken Bean, who served as Houston’s Poet Laureate from 2021 to 2023, is a dynamic performance poet known for his engaging and thought-provoking work. He is the first poet to perform on the Houston Ballet’s main stage and has been recognized as an Academy of American Poets Laureate Fellow. Bean will bring the spoken word experience directly to travelers, engaging them in spontaneous poetry sessions and live performances throughout the terminals.

"Integrating live art experiences like those offered by Texas Tim and Outspoken Bean enhances the passenger journey, offering travelers a distinctive and engaging connection to Houston's vibrant arts scene," said DuLaney.

The Art Ambassador Program reflects the commitment of Houston Airports to creating a sense of place and community within its terminals. By showcasing local talent and providing interactive artistic experiences, the program enriches the travel experience and highlights Houston’s rich cultural tapestry.

Engage with Art at Houston Airports

Passengers are encouraged to participate in these unique artistic engagements during their travels. Whether receiving a personalized caricature or engaging in a spontaneous poetry session, travelers will find that Houston’s airports are not just gateways to destinations but also hubs of creativity and cultural exchange.