On Tuesday afternoon, Love Field held a reception for some of the artists whose pieces are part of the Love Field Modernization Program. The pieces all involve travel, North Texas or both and are part of the City of Dallas’ public art program. By the end of the summer, 15 pieces will call the airport home – 11 new commissions and four longtime residents like the Texas Ranger statue and the world map right in front of the security line.

I’ll have more details in a KERA radio story airing later this week. But until then, here’s a look at some of the art, as well as the artists’ thoughts about making work for an airport:

Back in a Moment, by Sherry Owens. Photo: Stephen Becker

“I’ve been in a lot of airports, and I always search out the public art. Because airports, you know, can be pretty boring. … I think it just becomes more of a user-friendly place when you have artwork.”

– Dallas artist Sherry Owens

North Texas Sunrise, by Dixie Friend Gay. Photo: Stephen Becker

“Even a picture of nature relaxes us, slows us down. I know how hectic travel can be. …  This is a way to calm the mind I think.”

– Houston artist Dixie Friend Gay

In Flight, by Paul Marioni. Photo: Stephen Becker

“When we work in a public space, you figure out who’s your audience. In an airport, it’s everybody – young and old, Christian, Jew, Muslim, men, women. So it’s like, what can we do that everybody will feel comfortable, be made to feel welcome.”

– Seattle artist Paul Marioni

The Settler, by David Newton. Photo: David Newton

“It lets travelers know that art is an important part of the community or culture in your city. In that way, you’re kind of telling people who you are just by the sense that you are supporting the arts in your public building. So that’s very important I think as an introduction to the city.”

– Dallas artist David Newton