Portland International Airport (PDX ) has commissioned artist Jacob Hashimoto to create a new permanent artwork for Concourse E.
The work, which celebrates Portland and Oregon, will be unveiled next summer. Hashimoto, who was raised in the Pacific Northwest, will draw on his love of the region to create a unique structure that celebrates Portland’s architecture, city landscape and natural beauty, along with elements found at PDX.
“PDX is an iconic space in my mind. It was the big city to me when I was a kid, and the opportunity to make artwork in collaboration with PDX was really inspiring,” said Hashimoto. “I am interested in how I can design artwork that is a pleasure to discover as you travel through it visually.”
Drawing from his Japanese heritage, Hashimoto brings a unique style to his art. His interactive three-dimensional structures comprise thousands of miniature kites, which are made from bamboo and silk or paper and joined together in larger compositions.
When completed on Concourse E next year, Hashimoto’s structure will be a nod to the neighborhoods and natural beauty that surround Portland – some with kites tracing the paths of the Willamette and Columbia rivers, while others feature roses and pearls, the city’s flags and seals, and even the PDX carpet pattern. Hashimoto’s goal is to remind travelers of the potential of nature and the adventure that’s just a flight away.
The art installation has been made possible due to PDX Next, a program of upgrading and updating the airport that includes extending Concourse E. When the extension opens in June 2020, in addition to Hashimoto’s artwork, the space will feature new gates for Southwest Airlines, more comfortable places to sit, new dining and shopping options and a great view of Mount Hood.
“It’s quite exciting to have Jacob’s work featured at PDX, which is often a person’s first and last experience when visiting the region,” said Peggy Kendellen, public art manager at Portland’s Regional Arts and Culture Council.
“Portland is a city filled with creatives, and what better way to be introduced to it than with this amazing installation inspired by a sense of place through the lens of an artist.”
