HOUSTON, May 22, 2020 — Artists of all abilities, from every corner of the most diverse city in the United States, are proud to have their artwork showcased in Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and George Bush Intercontinental (IAH). These artists interpreted the theme “Houston Is” and created an inspiring collection of art that will decorate the Houston Airports terminals.

More than 180 entries were submitted from artist of all ages and walks of life. From 9 years old to 72, these talented participants bring the fabric of Houston to its 4-Star airports.

“Underlying this exhibit is our dedication to providing a meaningful and engaging experience for all passengers.  We are committed to removing barriers to travel and to accessibility and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities”, Director of Government Relations and ADA Coordinator Tim Joniec said. “Houston Airports is proud to be a world-class leader in making the airport experience accessible for everyone.”

The exhibit celebrates the artists and showcases the inclusivity and diversity that make up Houston. The new exhibit will create a sense of place for the more than 59 million passengers who travel through Houston Airports every year. The project was unveiled on May 21, Global Accessibility Awareness Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the advancement of digital technology, and the importance of making this technology available to people with disabilities (PWD).

“This project demonstrates that anybody with limited abilities has something to contribute, it’s telling the story through the eyes of different individuals”. Chief Development Officer for the Center for Pursuit, Mary Lou Garza said. “Not just your beautiful photographs of downtown etc. at the airport but how does a person with intellectual disabilities, how does he or she see the city. Everybody has something to contribute.”

Students and clients of the following organizations participated in the “Houston Is” exhibit:

Down Syndrome Association of Houston, Home Place of Texas, Reach Unlimited, Rita Drabek Elementary School Art Club, nonPareil Institute, The Arc of Fort Bend County, The Arc of Greater Houston and The Center for Pursuit.

The Arc of Greater Houston and Down Syndrome Association of Houston recently partnered with Houston Airports in another endeavor benefitting people with disabilities, the Access Houston Airports app.  Houston Airports developed the app to ease the airport journey for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their caregivers.  The app is free to download.

Members of the public may view the exhibit in the main rotunda at HOU and the Terminal A ticketing lobby at IAH.

About Houston Airport System
Comprised of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU and Ellington Airport (EFD) / Houston Spaceport, the Houston Airport System served nearly 60 million passengers in 2019.  Houston Airports form one of North America's largest public airport systems and position Houston as the international passenger and cargo gateway to the South-Central United States and a primary gateway to Latin America.  Houston is proud to be the only city in the Western Hemisphere with two Skytrax rated 4-Star airports.  Learn more at fly2houston.com.

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Media Contact
Augusto Bernal
Cel. 713-542-1490
augusto.bernal@houtontx.gov