Case Study
Art at the Airport
Sense of Arrival: Integrating Art into Travel Infrastructure
St. John's International Airport Authority (SJIAA) serves as Newfoundland and Labrador's gateway to the world—a threshold where personal journeys and cultural exchanges begin and end. Building on their growing public art portfolio, the Airport commissioned three large sculptural works created by artists Marcia Huyer, Vince Jones, and Emily Pittman, which are seamlessly integrated into their redesigned parking lot. These artworks contribute to a unique sense of arrival, offering passengers a singular and memorable experience that shapes their first and last impressions of the province.
Our Role
SJIAA recognizes that what travellers see, hear, and experience will spark their imaginations and forge connections to the distinctive character of Newfoundland and Labrador. We've been proud collaborators since 2018, working together to harness art's power in creating these meaningful encounters.
Our role included:
Collaborating with the airport to identify an ambitious project scope and timeline that would authentically represent the SJIAA’'s values and desired impacts
Developing a clear thematic guide that reflects the unique spirit of Newfoundland and Labrador and aligned with the SJIAA’s vision for this project
Crafting and disseminating the Call for Submissions that attracted regional, national and international artists
Co-hosting public information sessions for prospective participants to support and empower local and emerging artists to apply, and to provide crucial context to artists from away
Project coordination that facilitated the artist selection process, contract development through to final installation
Consulting on communications strategy and rollout to maximize impact
The result? Three dynamic works of art seamlessly integrated into the airport's parking lot revitalization, creating a cultural gateway that connects every traveller to Newfoundland and Labrador's vibrant creativity, natural beauty, and rich storytelling traditions.
About the Airport
St. John's International Airport Authority is a private, not-for-profit, non-share capital corporation operating the most easterly airport in North America. As Newfoundland and Labrador's premier transportation gateway, they facilitate safe and efficient air services while serving as an important catalyst for regional business and economic development. Beyond transportation, they're committed to offering an exceptional airport experience that enhances the economic, environmental, social, and cultural wellbeing of their community, providing a welcoming environment where families and friends reunite and say goodbye. Central to this vision is their Sense of Arrival public art initiative, which creates memorable impressions and meaningful encounters for arriving and departing passengers, celebrating the province's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
“testimonial”
Steve Denty, Manager, Commercial Development and Customer Experience
St. John’s International Airport Authority
Let’s work together
If your organization is looking to engage with artists—whether for a single event or a province-wide project—we're here to help. Business & Arts NL’s Brokering Services ensure that your partnership with the arts is thoughtful, effective, and impactful.
info@businessandartsnl.com