Ford Airport opens submissions for local muralists

Ford Airport opens submissions for local muralists
Reb Roberts' mural is on display at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. <strong> Courtesy Gerald R. Ford International Airport </strong>

Gerald R. Ford International Airport has opened proposal submissions from West Michigan artists to be considered for its series of art installations in Concourse A. 

The airport is requesting proposals for murals and 2D wall art applications to be displayed in its newly expanded Concourse A, following the selection of four local artists for its terrazzo installation and a hanging art installation. 

Concourse A will feature three art mediums, including custom terrazzo flooring, a suspended art installation and wall art. 

Altogether, the pieces will mimic the experience of arriving in West Michigan. Artists should aim to complement West Michigan’s identity from the blues of Lake Michigan and the natural tans of the dunes to the grays and purples of the urban core to the greens of the forests and farmland in between.

“This new modernized concourse was designed to reflect the unique characteristics of our region,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “Our design team was very intentional about creating opportunities within this new space to showcase the diverse talents of our local art community.” 

The Concourse A project — part of the Elevate capital expansion program to enhance the airport’s facilities and infrastructure — is designed to reflect the culture of the region. This $110 million extension will more than double the length and width of the existing concourse to meet the growing passenger demand for air travel. New dining options, amenities, such as an executive lounge, and retail stores will be located throughout the 90,000-square-foot space.

Submissions are open for murals and 2D proposals through March 26. Artists selected for Concourse A will be expected to complete projects in July-August.