The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, in collaboration with JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), has announced the selection of 18 artists to create public art commissions for the new Terminal 6 at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The terminal, part of a $4.2 billion project, is scheduled to open in 2026.
Public Art Fund, an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to public art, will lead the art program. The selected artists include ten from New York City and will produce sculptures, suspended installations, wall works, and glass mosaic floor medallions that aim to reflect the spirit of New York.
Rick Cotton, Executive Director of the Port Authority, stated: “Public art that is inspiring and evocative of our region is an essential part of the Port Authority’s strategy to create world-class airports that are becoming destinations in their own right.” He added that the new Terminal 6's public art would "dazzle travelers and help create a sense of place unique to New York."
Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole emphasized the importance of the artists' contributions: “These remarkable artists will bring the unique spirit of our region to the new JFK Terminal 6, welcoming international visitors and locals alike.”
George Casey, chair of JFK Millennium Partners and CEO of Vantage Group, highlighted how art would enhance visitors' experiences: “Art brings visitors from across the world to New York City, and our new international gateway at JFK will be an art destination in and of itself.”
Nicholas Baume, artistic & executive director of Public Art Fund, noted: "Art takes a starring role at the new Terminal 6. Walls, floors, ceilings and volumes will all be enriched with architecturally integrated, site-specific commissions by some of the most extraordinary artists of our time."
The selected artists come from diverse backgrounds and work in various mediums. They include individuals born in Charleston (S.C.), Brooklyn (N.Y.), Ferndale (Wash.), Somalia, Croix (France), Mainz (Germany), and Madison (Wis.).
The development of Terminal 6 is part of a broader $19 billion transformation plan for JFK Airport by the Port Authority. This initiative includes two new terminals, expanded facilities, a ground transportation center, and a simplified roadway network.
Public Art Fund aims to bring contemporary art to broad audiences through free exhibitions that offer powerful experiences with urban environments. More information can be found on their website.
The Port Authority's airport transformation efforts extend beyond JFK. LaGuardia Airport has seen significant upgrades through an $8 billion public-private partnership that earned global accolades. Newark Liberty International Airport is also undergoing extensive renovations with a new $2.7 billion Terminal A opened in January 2023.
