Our Favorite Art Installations at O’Hare & Midway Airports

In 2017, Chicago’s two airports, O’Hare and Midway set a new record with a combined 102 million passengers, according to the city’s Department of Aviation. While both airports pride themselves on moving passengers efficiently and effectively from drop-off to boarding, they also boast restaurants, bars, and other amenities to ensure that time spent in transit is by no means time wasted. Both airports also boast world-class art installations that are the envy of many museums.

Our Favorites at Midway Airport

(Courtesy of Chicago Department of Aviation)

One of the most impressive and resonant exhibits at Midway is the Artistic Expression of Life in Our Chicago Neighborhoods, organized by Hostelling International Chicago and Girl Scouts of Chicago. One of the defining features of Chicago is the diversity and cohesion of its neighborhoods. This exhibit comprises 50 paintings that depict these singular stars in the Chicago constellation through the eyes of children artists. For a different perspective, Kathleen Eaton’s Chicago Neighborhoods exhibit explores the artist’s fascination with the spaces people create for themselves, and the way those spaces both shape and are shaped by the reality of the world that surrounds them.

Our Must-sees at O’Hare Airport

(Courtesy of Chicago Department of Aviation)

O’Hare is Chicago’s cosmopolitan international gateway, and the art on offer in its mezzanines and hallways reflects that global perspective. One of the most recognizable pieces is The Runners by Theodoros Papagiannis. This sculpture situated on the I-90 embankment was a gift from the Athens Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International. Chicago has 28 sister cities that span the globe, and this sculpture of man running into the modern world has come to exemplify the interconnectivity and pan-nationalism of the great metropolis. Inside the airport, I’ve Known Rivers by Alejandro Ramero is a staggering mural over 200 feet long that brings to life the famous Langston Hughes poem of the same title in a vivid kaleidoscope of acrylic colors.

For natives and visitors to Chicago alike, try a car or limo to O’Hare or Midway as a dependable way to get to and from the airport. Echo Limousine is the highest rated limousine and car service in the city. Arrive with enough time to take in these impressive art exhibits. Call or text (773) 774-1074 or book your service online today.