Bright, fun, colorful and, most importantly, relaxing. These are just a few of the words
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) travelers are using to describe The Gallery at SMF, which recently opened on the third floor of Terminal B.
In an effort to reduce some of the stresses of air travel, SMF has incorporated some innovative options, such as specialty lounges, “quiet rooms,” therapy dogs and live entertainment.
The airport has also become known for its
public art displays and features an eclectic mix intended to help visitors relax and enjoy their airport experience. “Leap” the giant red rabbit hanging prominently in Terminal B and “Samson” the 23-foot tall luggage stacks in Terminal A are just a couple of the unique pieces that make SMF stand out.
SMF’s latest edition features local artist Tim Collom, who brings his incredible collection of vibrant pieces to his very own contemporary space.
Travel retailer Paradies Lagardere, which oversees eight retail locations at SMF, approached Collom with the idea and both parties quickly worked together to bring the space to life.
“Sacramento is well-known for its electric art scene, and we wanted to bring this into the airport and introduce it to travelers,” said Tim Ahmadzai, General Manager of Paradies Lagardere at SMF.
Collom’s work features scenes from across California, from Southern California to Lake Tahoe.
"Airports have a reputation for being hectic at times," Collom said. "They really wanted something that said, ‘Hey, let’s create something that can get our customer’s mind off of the travel experience for at least a few minutes.’"
Collom shifts between large and small canvases, characteristically using wet on wet application of oil paint to create rich, expressive strokes of color. His subjects range from bright landscapes, day to day life and various animals. His art is positive and upbeat and can be found in more than 75 collections throughout California.
Collom grew up in Southern California and the Bay Area. Most of his work portrays scenes throughout the state and offers a California experience for travelers from all over the country and the world to enjoy.
