George Bush Airport Public Artworks Commission
Houston Arts Alliance and United Airlines seek two large-scale public artworks for George Bush Intercontinental Airport with budgets of $300,000 and $350,000.
Houston Arts Alliance (HAA), on behalf of United Airlines, has announced an open call for two new public artworks to be installed at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in September 2026. Greater Houston area artists and artist teams over age 18 are eligible to apply. HAA defines the Greater Houston area as Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, and Waller counties.
The first commission is a wall-mounted sculpture for United Airlines Terminal B. This large-scale, dimensional work will transform a prominent, elevated wall into a vibrant visual moment within the concourse. The artwork should draw inspiration from Houston's diverse ecological systems and biodiversity—from the bayous, wetlands, and coastal prairies to migratory bird pathways, native flora and fauna, and the seasonal transformations of the Gulf Coast environment. Artists are free to interpret these themes literally or abstractly. The budget for this project is $300,000.
The second commission is a "Welcome to Houston" baggage claim artwork for the Terminal B arrivals level. This seeks an iconic, photogenic freestanding artwork that engages visitors, encourages interaction, and through form, color, and concept, evokes the city's welcoming spirit and distinctive sense of place. The artwork may refer to Houston by name, but this is not required. The budget for the baggage claim artwork is $350,000.
An information session will be held on Wednesday, November 19, at 6 p.m. to discuss project specifications for both opportunities. Request for Qualifications applications for both projects are due Monday, December 8, at 11:59 p.m. CST.