[title]
The journey through JFK’s new Terminal One will be more gallery walk than security slog. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and New Terminal One just unveiled an ambitious public art and cultural program that turns the $9.5 billion international terminal, set to open in phases beginning 2026, into a full-on love letter to New York.
Seven internationally recognized artists have been tapped to create monumental, site-specific installations that reflect the city’s history, diversity and energy. Think giant batik kites by Yinka Shonibare CBE RA floating above travelers, a massive bronze hand sprouting native flowers by Kelly Akashi and a whimsical lineup of watches and payphones from Woody De Othello perched atop baggage carousels, a cheeky nod to “the city that never sleeps.”
Other featured artists include Tomás Saraceno, Ilana Savdie, Julie Curtiss and Firelei Báez, whose works will bring color, symbolism and plenty of New York attitude to the 2.6-million-square-foot terminal.
“Public art that is inspiring and evocative of our region is an essential part of the Port Authority’s strategy to create world-class airports that are becoming destinations in their own right,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton in an official statement.
The art is part of a wider creative vision led by Arup with Culture Corps, Pentagram, Gentilhomme and others. Together, they’ve fused sculpture, film, branding and immersive digital media into one continuous experience. There’ll be “Love Letters to New York,” a series of short films by Queens-based filmmakers, and an immersive “Leaving New York” installation, a kaleidoscopic farewell woven through the departures hall with dynamic displays and soundscapes of the city.
“Too often airport experiences feel like they could be anywhere,” said Gideon D’Arcangelo, experience design lead at Arup, in a statement. “We set out to create an experience that could only happen in New York.”
Pentagram’s branding will make sure you don’t forget where you are either, with monumental signage, mosaic floor inlays and what’s billed as the world’s largest split-flap display.
When fully complete in 2030, the new Terminal One will house 23 gates, accommodate 23 million passengers annually and, if all goes to plan, double as one of the city’s most unexpected art destinations.