ArtStart, Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport work together to bring art to new spaces

ArtStart and the Rhinelander/Oneida County Airport are partnering to bring art displays to enhance the airport waiting area, joining the trend among many airports to offer visual art to travelers.

 The inaugural display is by Wabeno artist Colleen Ansbaugh featuring waterways of the Northwoods. 

“I’m highlighting the rivers and our waterways, the large rocks and the sights we enjoy every day here in the Northwoods,” Ansbaugh, a nationally recognized painter and fiber artist, explained in a press release announcing the project.

The goal of the project is to enhance the beauty of the airport, according to airport director Matthew Leitner. “When people get off the plane, this waiting area is their introduction to the airport and our area,” he said.

 ArtStart will serve as a liaison between the airport and the artists, coordinating five rotating exhibitions a year. 

“Our mood is impacted by our surroundings,” noted Ashley McLaughlin, ArtStart’s Operations Director. “Viewing art while waiting for a flight or as a first impression of the area when deplaning is a positive. Our goal is to feature artists who live in the area served by the Rhinelander/Oneida County Airport.”

Artists interested in having their work featured should contact ArtStart at 715-362-4328. 

 The public can view the artwork during airport business hours. The current exhibition will be on display through February.