Indianapolis Airport Terminal Gets First Permanent Art Installation Since 2008

Indianapolis International Airport (IND) has unveiled a new art installation designed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the State’s International Centre arts and culture initiative.

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Open for viewing

Designed by Indianapolis-based Artist and Herron School of Art and Design student, Brenna McCarty, the 40 by 100-foot piece has been installed at the airport terminal, suspended over 65 feet in the air, above visitors to the city.

The installation is the first permanent art piece to be added to the terminal since its opening in 2008 and will remain on display in the pre-security area near the ticketing hall and baggage claim, open to viewing from the public.

Photo: Indianapolis International Airport

Blue Skies was launched at the airport on Wednesday, featuring a crowd of Indiana aviation officials, university representatives, and other special guests to celebrate its unveiling. Indiana Airport Authority executive director, Mario Rodriguez, explained,

“The Indy airport’s commitment to local artists and public art is soaring to new heights this year… This new public art piece will welcome nearly 9 million visitors to the Indy airport each year and many more for years to come.”

Backed by The International Centre and a $120,000 grant from the Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation, the installation features hundreds of blue acrylic spheres arranged at different lengths to represent the energy and togetherness of the airport.

In a statement shared by the airport, Herro School dean, Greg Hull, noted the importance of the piece in highlighting the work of the university’s students. Hull added,

“Blue Skies is welcoming travelers to the city and is advancing contemporary art within our urban landscape while also connecting with the rich history of art in both the city and the state. We’re always seeking out opportunities for our students’ work to shine. It’s just been incredible to see what she’s been able to accomplish with this project.”

Growth at Indianapolis

Through 2023, the midwestern airport has seen steady growth, prompting the addition of several infrastructure upgrades across the terminal and tarmac.

In April, the airport entered the second phase of its $180 million construction project to overhaul its southern runway, boosting its green score and growing capacity. The three-stage project will see the 10,000-foot Runway 5R-23L completely resurfaced and repaired, while LED lighting will be installed on the runway and taxiway to lower energy usage, extending its life cycle up to 40 years.

Photo: Indianapolis International Airport

The project is on track to enter the third phase in 2024, with its subsequent opening hoping to draw in new European services to grow the region’s economy.

Other 2023 arrivals include new restaurants within the terminal to meet the needs of the gradual increase in post-pandemic passenger levels, with eateries HotBox Pizza, Circle City Beer Garden, The Tap, Harry & Izzy’s, and a freshly renovated Chick-fil-A joining the concourse. Passengers can also utilize the new IND order now service to order in advance, skipping the queue if they’re running late.

Rodriguez noted the improved offerings in recent years, emphasizing the airport’s lineup of local brands and national chains to enhance the dining experience.

What are your thoughts on Indianapolis International Airport’s new art installation? Let us know in the comments.