July 2, 2013

New Mosaic Mural Enhances JAX Experience

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) and the Jacksonville International Airport Arts Commission are proud to present Celestial Playground, a mural created by New York Artist Amy Cheng surrounding the courtyard restroom area and water fountain stations at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). The mural is the 14th addition to JAA’s permanent art collection at JAX.
 
Cheng designed Celestial Playground to visually reference the sky, the heavens and the cosmos. The design flows from one frame to the next, and from a distance, creates an illusion of deep space. The mural was fabricated with glass, ceramic and stone mosaic.

“Celestial Playground is designed to impart to the viewer a sense of lightness, a feeling of joy,” said Cheng. “I like to think that my work provides the facility users with something visually lovely and cheerful, something that may stop them in their tracks for a second in surprise or delight.”

Because of its impressive and award-winning public art program, JAX was recognized in recent years by the London Observer as one of the best airports in the world to be stranded. Only three other airports were included on the list. The others were London's Heathrow Airport, Seoul Airport in South Korea and Amsterdam's Airport Schiphol.

“JAX airport was one of the first to institute an arts program back in the 90s,” said JIA Arts Commission Coordinator Allie Gloe. “JAX continues to be a world-leader in the arts, as we strive to celebrate culture and perception that brings about calmness, wonder and inspiration, which are all emotions nicely fitting for travelers in an airport.”

Artist Amy Cheng was selected by the JAX Arts Commission among 93 responding artists. Her public art installations have mostly been situated in airports, and subway and elevated train stations. For additional artist information and project photos, visit http://amychengstudio.com/

For more information about the Public Art Program at JAX , visit www.JIAarts.org.