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August 2023

Diversity in the Desert: Expanding the Airport’s Art Collection

Diversity in the Desert: Expanding the Airport’s Art Collection

As Phoenix Sky Harbor grows, so does its vast art collection. It all began in 1962 with one massive 75-foot-wide mural at Terminal 2 and the Airport’s collection has continued growing ever since. The designs of Terminals 3 and 4 incorporated spaces for art with large-scale paintings and sculptures as well as architecturally integrated works.

The Phoenix Airport Museum began in 1988 to enhance the guest experience by producing exhibitions throughout Phoenix Sky Harbor and maintaining the ever-increasing art collection. Today, the Museum has more than 1,000 pieces in all mediums, styles and sizes. Like all museums, only a fraction of the collection is on display at any one time.

On view for the first time are 41 newly acquired artworks in a wide variety of approaches and techniques ranging from colorful abstracts to realistic portraiture to Southwest themes. These new additions to the Airport's collection were purchased through the city of Phoenix’s Percent for Art Program.

Contemporary Arizona artists created art in various mediums using traditional and unconventional materials including cactus spines, bones, glass and metal. Enjoy these paintings, drawings, sculptures, prints and fiber works showcasing Arizona’s rich art and culture representing Diversity in the Desert.

NEW ARTWORKS ON DISPLAY 24/7

  • Post-security
    • Terminal 3, level 4 gallery 
  • Pre-security – you do not need a plane ticket
    • Terminal 3, level 4 near Sky Train bridge
    • Terminal 3, level 1 southside across from Peet’s
    • Terminal 4, level 3 gallery

Learn more about the Phoenix Airport Museum.