Local Art at Tri-Cities Airport Highlights Native American Culture

The newest round of local artwork has been installed at the Tri-Cities Airport. The airport’s selections for 2022 were curated by the Airport Art Committee, the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute, and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. 

Themed as “We Were, We Are, and We Will Be,” the exhibit provides a local historical and cultural perspective on Native Americans and their impact on the region while also educating passengers about the existence of the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute, the only museum on the Oregon Trail that tells the story of Western expansionism from a tribal point of view.

“We always appreciate the opportunity to showcase local artists at the airport,” said Buck Taft, Director of Tri-Cities Airport. “This year we’re using the sights and sounds of native cultures to enhance the experience of all our passengers traveling through our airport, giving them a glimpse into how exceptional our region was in the past, is now currently, and will continue to be in the future.” 

The displays will be up through the year. Artist statements and sample art pieces are above.