Des Moines International Airport | Des Moines, IA | Lightweight aluminum frame, suspended fabric, integrated & natural lighting | Installation 2026
Inspired by the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, this suspended installation translates the region’s defining waterways into an architectural, flowing overhead sculpture. Organic, undulating geometry moves from landside to airside, guiding travelers through the meet-and-greet space with a calm, continuous visual rhythm.
The primary objective of this installation is to create a calming, site-specific artwork that reflects the natural identity of Des Moines while enhancing the architectural experience of the terminal and offering a gentle balance to the intensity and pace of travel.
The artwork is composed of suspended, organic fabric that flows across the ceiling plane, evoking the movement of water, sky, and drifting clouds. It is designed to seamlessly integrate with the terminal’s architectural systems, materials, and lighting.
The installation relies on ambient and natural lighting rather than dedicated fixtures, allowing the artwork to shift in appearance throughout the day. The motif aligns with other terminal installations, creating continuity across multiple locations while maintaining its own distinct spatial presence.
The result is a refined, architectural artwork that merges structure, movement, and atmosphere into a cohesive, meditative experience.