SAN DIEGO – San Diego International Airport has unveiled Balboa Park & the City: Celebrating San Diego’s Panama-California Exposition; the largest and most ambitious year-long exhibition offered by the airport’s Art Program.
Intended to support and enhance the City of San Diego’s year-long Balboa Park Centennial celebration, the airport-wide exhibition includes original artwork and historic images, collectibles, and artifacts that bring the 1915 Panama-California Exposition to life.
“With 30 installations spread among all three terminals, the exhibition offers a truly immersive experience that takes you back in time,” said Thella F. Bowens, President/CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority.
The exhibition includes historic items, replicas and images from seven local institutions and collectors, including: City of San Diego, Parks & Recreation Department; San Diego History Center; the Committee of 100; David Marshall, AIA; and Sandor W. Shapery, Shapery Enterprises.
The exhibition’s images include historic photographs and postcards presented in large format documenting the unique history, landscape and architecture of the Park.
The Art Program solicited original artwork that is representative of or inspired by Balboa Park and the city of San Diego from local artists. Ten participants were selected to exhibit their work based on their aesthetic and creative representation of the Park and unique use of media.
Exhibition highlights include:
· A replica of the famous wicker “Electriquette,” which transported fairgoers at the 1915 Exposition,
· Lighting designs by Jim Gibson, inspired by the ornate fixtures at the 1935 Exposition,
· Original works by Guillermo Acevedo, a celebrated illustrator and documentarian of San Diego’s landmarks and historic sites.
In addition to temporary installations and rotating exhibitions, the Airport Art Program includes public art and performing arts components, aimed at engaging travelers and creating an ambiance unique to San Diego. For more information about the Airport Art Program, visit www.san.org/Airport-Art.
