“Capturing Sioux Falls: A Local Lens on Airport Expansion”

Dec. 23, 2024

Passengers utilizing the new parking ramp entrance to the Sioux Falls Regional Airport will now be immersed in local imagery.

Paul Schiller, the photographer and proprietor of Acts of Nature, placed numerous images depicting downtown Sioux Falls and Falls Park in the corridor connecting the ramp to the main terminal.

“The airport’s position is among the finest in Sioux Falls to present our city to guests and visitors. Every year, thousands will walk by these new displays,” he remarked.

“We’ve put in significant effort over the years to counter the stereotype that we are unexciting, flat, and unattractive. We are a city that is on the rise. We possess visuals to substantiate that. An airport is always a significant introduction to newcomers — let’s not let them down.”

Schiller collaborated with Michelle Klobassa at TSP, who designed the ramp, airport management, and Eric Ellefson of Click Rain who is part of the Sioux Falls Airport Authority.

In selecting images, he opted for those that offered a lasting representation of the Falls and Arc of Dreams.

“River Splendor” measures 42 feet in length and 20 feet in height, while “Framing a City” is sized at 12 feet by 12 feet.

“Based on experience, individuals will be curious about the origin of that scene,” Schiller stated. “I have seen many airports globally, and they effectively highlight their cities’ distinct characteristics. There’s a reason behind that. Now, we have valuable space to achieve this.”

He noted that the responses have been positive, adding that he is currently in the process of determining information to be included with the exhibitions.

“My aspiration for this initiative is to demonstrate to Sioux Falls’ governmental and hospitality leaders how impactful prominent, large visuals in strategic facility placements can create very favorable perceptions of our expanding region,” remarked Schiller.

“It’s crucial they begin allocating funds for this during the architectural planning phase and not as an afterthought post-project to ensure effectiveness. I remain optimistic that the imagery of Sioux Falls at the airport will play a role in shaping future developments across the city.”

He expressed hope that should the airport concourse extend as intended, there will also be integration of local artistry, alongside that of the Sioux Falls Convention Center.

“If you stroll through the Convention Center, you’ll discover merely two visuals representing Sioux Falls. One features the Arc and the other showcases the Falls. They belong to me, yet differ from those at the airport. Each year, we have countless residents and tourists traversing that center, and it is vital we leave an impression. We also have significant progress to make in this area,” he mentioned. “Keep in mind that my desire is for my art to spark dialogue.”