AUSTIN, Texas – Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), in partnership with the City of Austin’s Art in Public Places (AIPP) program, proudly hosted the inaugural Public Art Makers Expo on August 23, a first-of-its-kind event that brought together artists, designers, and fabricators local to Austin and from across Texas. The event created a space for creative collaboration and helped expand opportunities in the world of public art.

Held at the airport, the Expo welcomed Austin and Central Texas-based artists who connected with industry professionals and explored the tools, materials, and strategies used to bring public art to life. The event supported the professional development of local artists while building connections with the fabricators and experts who helped turn ideas into built works.
 
With Austin experiencing significant infrastructure growth, including smart street upgrades, new fire and EMS stations, parks, cultural centers, and a transformative airport expansion, opportunities for public art continue to grow. AUS alone is developing more than 20 public art installations as part of its ongoing Journey With AUS expansion program.
 
The Public Art Makers Expo featured:

• An Expo Area where exhibitors displayed materials, prototypes, and fabrication tools, allowing artists to get a close-up look at the process and capabilities behind large-scale public artworks.
• A Presentation Space where each exhibitor gave a 10-minute talk, sharing insights, case studies, and examples of successful public art projects.
• A Gathering Space for artists and professionals to casually network, exchange ideas, and build creative relationships.
• A Q&A Zone where attendees engaged directly with exhibitors, technical experts, and public art staff to ask questions and gain personalized insight.

Exhibitors included machinists, metal workers, glass and concrete specialists, carpenters, lighting designers, structural and electrical engineers, and project managers, who are all essential collaborators in delivering impactful, lasting public art. Participation was free, and exhibit space was offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to experienced public art fabricators.
 
The Public Art Makers Expo served as a vital step in helping artists expand their practice, better understand public art processes, and find the right partners to turn their creative vision into reality.
 
For more information about the City of Austin’s Art in Public Places program, visit: https://www.austintexas.gov/aipp
 
To learn more about AUS’s expansion and opportunities for artists, visit: https://austintexas.gov/AUSJourney