When you are traveling through Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) this summer, be sure to leave extra time to check out the award-winning Exhibitions Program, now showcasing three new art exhibits, each uniquely tailored to the airport environment.
El Zodiaco Familiar- Between Terminals C and D
Philadelphia artist George Rodriguez draws on his Mexican American heritage and global travels for inspiration. Through a blend of ornamentation, humor, and respect for diverse traditions, Rodriguez seeks to bridge different cultures. His ceramic sculptures often feature guardian figures, tomb sculptures, and shrines, reflecting ancient relics with universal messages of hope, loss, acceptance, and simplicity. In his PHL airport exhibition, El Zodiaco Familiar, George pays homage to the Chinese Zodiac by reimagining the Chinese Zodiac animals as Mexican creatures. George created a new narrative introducing the zodiac characters alongside “amigos,” guardian figures that highlight his ongoing exploration of community, culture, identity, and ornamentation. El Zodiaco Familiar is on display for ticketed passengers between Terminals C and D. 
“El Zodiaco Familiar highlights the many talents of the collaborating artists. It’s a project about building community by showing a wide range of creative talents through the global narrative of the Chinese Zodiac. We all have stories to share. I love that people from all over the world can experience a brief moment of joy, mystery, excitement, education, or breath through this installation in PHL. We move so fast through our daily lives, especially at an airport, and I hope to give a moment of pause,” said Rodriguez.
Visit georgerodriguez.net for more information.
Mis Tesoros- Terminal A-West
Philadelphia artist, ceramicist, and educator Nitza Walesca Sierra draws deep inspiration from her Puerto Rican heritage. Influenced by her mother’s community dedication, Nitza creates vessels that reflect feminine strength. The shapes of her pots are inspired by women’s bodies, with handles resembling hands on hips and curly hair flowing down. “Mis Tesoros” also meaning “My Treasures” features 18 matte black vessels representing the things we cherish. These works are inspired by Taino and African cultures, as well as Philadelphia architecture.
“I am honored to have Mis Tesoros on display at Philadelphia International Airport. I took a pottery class at The Clay Studio in 1993. While working 40 hours a week, I took advantage of every opportunity to be in the studio perfecting my craft. After years of practicing and taking classes, I am now a pottery instructor. I want everyone to know these two things: One, everyone can succeed at anything they put their heart into. Two, clay heals minds!,” said Sierra.
Visit nitzawalesca.com for more information.
Harriett’s Bookshop- Terminal C, Coming July 27
The Exhibitions Program will feature Harriett’s Bookshop, which is located in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood. The shop is named for Harriet Tubman and “celebrates women authors, women artists and women activists". The display, a small replica of Harriett’s children section, will be located in Terminal C, and ready for travelers to view on July 27.
To learn more about Harriet's, visit bookshop.org/shop/harriettsbookshop.
