Famed artist Vincent Van Gogh once said about his art, “I dream my paintings, and then I paint my dreams.”

The Houston Airport System is looking for artists with dreams.

A call for artists is being issued to help celebrate the 80th anniversary of William P. Hobby airport and to express the positive role this historical landmark has played in millions of people’s lives over the years. All Houston area independent school district students from Kindergarten thru 12th grade are eligible to participate, however, they must first contact their school’s art teachers.

“We want students to be educated on the importance of the aviation industry,” says Pam Ingersoll, art curator for the Houston Airport system. “This opportunity will help them understand what an airport brings to the community and economy.”

The art project is being conducted in cooperation with the Texas Art Education Association, (TAEA); Sara Chapman is the executive Director.

“We try to teach the students that contests are not about the money or the prize, it’s about the exhibition,” she says. “Art is very important in a child’s education. There’s no right or wrong answer and they get to express themselves.”

Art plays a prominent role within the Houston Airport System which maintains hundreds of indoor and outdoor works of art. Hanging near some of those established works will be the 39 student master pieces chosen by a panel of judges from the “Art World,” including an art dealer, representatives from the Houston Arts Alliance, Hobby Airport and the TAEA.

The judging of first, second and third place awards winners will take place at Hobby Airport on April 19th and 20th.

“We encourage students to get involved in this project and let us know how they perceive the world of aviation and what they see for Hobby airport in their future,” says Mary Case, airport manager of Hobby.

The decision to feature works from young people all over the area is just part of the commitment the airport system has made to the community.