Art & Culture Program
Since 1998, Albany International Airport has distinguished itself within the Northeast, and throughout the United States as a beacon for the arts in the Capital Region. Before the completion of an airport-wide expansion project, the Airport Authority's Board and a committee of advisors envisioned the establishment of an Art & Culture Program that would visually enhance the environment of the Airport and strengthen its connection to the diverse population it serves.
The Art & Culture Program has become a cornerstone for showcasing
the breadth and quality of the arts throughout the Region and has made
the Airport a busy hub not only for travel, but also for celebrating and
learning about local culture. Through exhibitions presented in the
Albany International Airport Gallery and the Concourse Galleries, the
Exhibition Case Program, free public programs and group tours, the Art
& Culture Program has extended the reach of area artists and museums
to an audience of more than three million people each year.
Additionally, DEPARTURE, The Shop of Capital Region Museums, the retail
arm of the Program, has become an important community service and a
unique shopping venue lauded nationally and prized locally.
Most airport art programs are initiated through funding provided by
percent-for-art programs mandated by the city in which the airport
resides. Since there are no percent-for-art mandates in the Capital
Region, funding for the Art & Culture Program has been derived
entirely from Albany International Airport's operating budget.
For
more than a decade the Art & Culture Program has sought to
stimulate pure enjoyment of the arts as well as critical thinking within
a fast-paced port of travel. Travelers find solace and insight into our
community while local artists are rewarded with sources of exposure and
revenue. Fostering this relationship is at the core of our mission, and
its development has led to our success as a national model for public
art programs.
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Sharon Bates, Director
Art & Culture Program
Albany International Airport Gallery hours:
7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. daily.
For additional information phone: 518.242.2241 or email arts@albanyairport.com
