In 2008, Memphis International Airport launched an annual local visual art contest. Each year the top 45 works of art are selected and put on display in the airport’s passenger walkway connectors between concourses. Students are challenged to capture what they love about the city.

Each year a panel of judges evaluates the new works for theme, concept, composition and craftsmanship.

Memphis International Airport receives more than 300 entries, from which 45 are selected to become paintings for the airport’s exhibition along the walkway connectors.