Your art could be the next landmark that defines Austin’s skyline. The city just hosted its first-ever Public Art Makers Expo at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and it signals a major shift in how Austin approaches public art – with local artists at the center of the conversation.
This wasn’t just another networking event. It was a strategic move to connect Austin’s growing creative community with the fabricators, engineers, and industry experts who actually build those massive installations you see around the city.
What Just Happened at AUS
On August 23rd, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport became an unlikely creative hub. The inaugural Public Art Makers Expo brought together artists, designers, and fabricators local to Austin and from across Texas, creating a space for creative collaboration and expanded opportunities in public art.
The setup was brilliant: 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, plus a Presentation Space where each exhibitor gave 10-minute talks sharing insights and case studies of successful public art projects.
Think of it as speed dating, but for artists who want to create the next iconic Austin installation.
Why This Matters Right Now
Austin is in the middle of massive growth, and that means unprecedented opportunities for public art. The city is experiencing significant infrastructure growth, including smart street upgrades, new fire and EMS stations, parks, cultural centers, and a transformative airport expansion, with opportunities for public art continuing to grow.
AUS alone is developing more than 20 public art installations as part of its ongoing Journey With AUS expansion program. That’s 20+ opportunities for local artists to create work that millions of travelers will experience.
How Austin’s Art Program Actually Works
Austin’s Art in Public Places (AIPP) program was created in 1985 by Austin City Council, with a city ordinance establishing 2% of eligible capital improvement project budgets as a set-aside commitment to commission artists or purchase art for City-owned property and facilities.
Translation: Every time the city builds something new, 2% of that budget goes toward art. With Austin’s current construction boom, that’s serious money flowing to local artists.
The program commissions visual artists who work across all media to create site-specific installations and unique public art that reflect the history and values of our communities. These aren’t generic sculptures – they’re cultural landmarks that become part of Austin’s identity.
Who Made This Expo Possible
Exhibitors included machinists, metal workers, glass and concrete specialists, carpenters, lighting designers, structural and electrical engineers, and project managers – all essential collaborators in delivering impactful, lasting public art.
This is the behind-the-scenes network that most artists never get to meet. The Expo created a Gathering Space for artists and professionals to casually network, exchange ideas, and build creative relationships, plus a Q&A Zone where attendees engaged directly with exhibitors, technical experts, and public art staff.
What This Means for Austin Artists
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.
Before this event, there was a gap between having a great idea and knowing how to execute it at public art scale. Now Austin artists have direct connections to the people who can make massive installations happen.
Participation was free, and exhibit space was offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to experienced public art fabricators. The city is clearly investing in making these connections accessible to local talent.
The Bigger Picture
This expo represents Austin’s commitment to keeping public art local and authentic. Instead of importing big-name artists from other cities, they’re building the infrastructure to support homegrown talent.
With AUS developing more than 20 public art installations and ongoing city infrastructure projects, Austin artists now have both the opportunities and the professional network to compete for major commissions.
Looking Ahead
While this was the first Public Art Makers Expo, the response suggests it won’t be the last. Austin is building a sustainable ecosystem where local artists can create the landmarks that define the city’s future.
For artists who missed this event, the connections made here will likely generate collaborations and opportunities for years to come. The fabricators and experts who participated are now part of Austin’s expanded public art network.
The Bottom Line
Austin just invested in its creative community in a way that could transform careers. By connecting artists with fabricators, engineers, and industry experts, the city is ensuring that the landmarks defining Austin’s growth come from Austin’s own creative vision.
Your art could be the next installation that welcomes millions of visitors to Austin or serves as a daily inspiration for residents. The network to make that happen is now stronger than ever.
Want to Get Involved?
- Art in Public Places Program: https://www.austintexas.gov/aipp
- AUS Journey Expansion Opportunities: https://austintexas.gov/AUSJourney
- Follow the Art in Public Places program for future opportunities and events
The infrastructure for Austin’s artistic future is being built right now. Make sure you’re part of it.
