While the Art Car Museum may be closing its doors, the spirit of art continues to thrive, welcoming passengers with open arms as they embark on adventures that begin at Houston’s airports.
An Art Car inspired by Stevie Ray Vaughan is displayed at Hobby Airport.
As Houston bids farewell to its renowned Art Car Museum, aviation and art converge to carry iconic pieces of art car history to unexpected heights. A new cultural collaboration between Houston Airports and the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art is bringing this art form to a new audience. Passengers traversing through George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) will find themselves immersed in Houston's vibrant cultural scene, which is home to one of the largest art car parades in the world.
The Art Car Museum, nestled on Heights Boulevard in Houston, will shutter its doors on April 28, 2024, marking the end of a legacy that spanned over two decades. Founded in 1998 by Ann Harithas and boasting an audacious profile by artist David Best, the museum quickly garnered national acclaim, becoming a staple on tourist itineraries and a beacon for local and international artists. The 37th Annual Art Car Parade drew hundreds of thousands of people to Downtown Houston on April 13.
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"While we bid a fond farewell to the Art Car Museum, we're it is so exciting to support the ongoing legacy of this Houston institution – The Art Car,” stated Alton DuLaney, Curator of Public Art for Houston Airports. "This collaboration will further enrich the airport experience, infusing it with the spirit of Houston's eclectic artistic community while sharing these iconic Art Cars with millions of people who may not have ever had a chance to visit the museum or see the parade.”
The decision to partner with the Orange Show, an organization committed to making art accessible to the public, underscores the dedication of Houston Airports to connecting the people, businesses, cultures, and economies of the world to Houston. The collaboration not only brings art to the masses but also celebrates the city's identity as a hub of creativity and individuality and underscores why Houston is home to the 2024 World’s Best Airport Art Program.
As passengers embark on their journey through Bush and Hobby airports, they'll encounter Art Cars paying homage to musical icons Freddie Mercury and Texas’ own Stevie Ray Vaughan. These intricately decorated vehicles, designed by artist Rebecca Bass, are a tribute to the city's rich musical heritage and cultural diversity.
"Art has the power to inspire and elevate our spirits," remarked DuLaney. "By showcasing a sampling of the iconic Art Car Parade at our airports, we aim to create a sense of wonder and curiosity among passengers, making their journey through Houston truly memorable."