Artwork and Displays
Located in the departure area at the south end of the terminal building, “Escape from Stellar Polaris” is a 15-foot glass and metal sculpture created by glass artist John Nutter and metal sculptor Thor Sunde. The sculpture is presented as an unearthed relic, its steel casing eroded to expose a multi-layered glass cylinder. A flight of birds escapes from cracks and fissures in the cylinder. As you approach the sculpture, the surface textures of the glass are revealed in myriad symbols, diagrams, and text relating to the geographical, natural, and mythical history of the site. Many of the images appear to be floating in front of or behind others, due to the overlap of the glass layers that make up the cylinder. The birds represent those native to the area, and include eagles, falcons, ospreys, and hawks.
 |
Carved glass birds “flying” over the baggage carousels are wandering components of “Escape from Stellar Polaris.” They are named after two stars – Altair, the brightest star in Aquila (the eagle constellation), and Vega, a bright star in Lyra. According to legend, Altair (a shepherd) and Vega (a weaver) are lovers who meet once a year by crossing the Milky Way. |
|
A historical display, located in the second-floor observation lounge above the departures area, chronicles the airport’s evolution from a grass-strip in the 1940s to a transportation hub in the ‘90s.
|
A unique and interesting display located in the arrivals area honours immigrant settlers and the contributions they made to the development of the Okanagan Valley.
|
|
Freestanding displays in the departure area showcase the history of Okanagan Valley people and industry. This display was prepared by the Kelowna Centennial Museum.
|
Display of First Nations art featuring artists from the local area is presented in cooperation with the Turtle Island Gallery.
|
|
Viticulture information is featured in a display presented by the Okanagan Wine Industry Museum.
|
Located in the concourse next to Air Canada Jazz ticket counters, a Kelowna Art Gallery display features works created by local artists.
|