She also describes the cloud as symbolic of voyaging beyond the horizon and ascending from the ground. The hanging sculpture comprises about 50 intricate cloud formations from steel hex netting suspended by discreet cabling. The clouds vary in size from two to 20 feet and span the entire width of the concourse. Some touch the ceilings, while others dip to just 18 feet from the floor. Soaring above the parking garage atrium is Earlier Flight, which pays homage to the early days of air travel.
The piece was designed and built by former Southwest Airlines employee Dunne Dittman, who views the piece as a vision of a bygone era of suitcases adorned with destination stickers that represented a simpler time for air travel. The flock spans 56 feet long and 35 feet wide. It was proportioned to the dimensions of the parking garage atrium. Each bird is fitted with a wooden frame for stability and is carefully hung with stainless steel cables to gently sway with the motion of air and vibration from the garage.
Created by Carrboro-based artist Jane Filer, it features images of smiling, happy figures mixed with images from various countries and North Carolina symbols. Friendly Folks is located in the international arrivals bag claim. The area is open to the public when an international flight is not being processed.
This is one of two installations in Terminal 2 created by Lydia Rubio. Gate of Air is a sculpted spiral that is in the shape of a seashell. The piece represents the elements of air and water, which are symbolized by a spiral that builds upward from a sea shell. This sculpture evokes an upward growth, a transformation from solid to light.
Gate of Earth is an aluminum and steel tree that begins outside and appears to enter the inside of the terminal. The tree is accompanied by a small cardinal, the North Carolina state bird.
