The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), the company that is currently building and will also operate the new Terminal 6 (T6) at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), today announced the first three Queens-based artists who have been selected to be part of the terminal’s inaugural Queens in Flight rotating community art program, which will debut when the new terminal opens its first gates in 2026. Local artists Kim Okoli, Llannski, and Garfield Harry will have their artwork prominently displayed in gate areas throughout the terminal’s departures concourse, joining permanent art installations from 19 world-renowned artists previously announced. The Queens in Flight artists’ artwork will also be available for travelers to purchase on a first-come, first-served basis via QR codes located on their display case.
“Throughout the Port Authority’s $19 billion transformation of JFK International Airport, we have worked with our private partners to design and build world-class terminals that will create a sense of place that is unique to New York and the borough of Queens,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “Artworks by Queens-based artists and new concessions featuring products from Queens will enliven the new terminal and enrich the unique passenger experience at Terminal 6.”
“As the front doors to our region, the Port Authority’s new airport terminals use magnificent works of art and locally inspired concessions to create an inspiring and unique passenger experience only found in our region,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “At Newark Liberty’s new Terminal A, at LaGuardia Airport and now at JFK, we are building new passenger facilities unlike any others.”
“T6 is more than just a new airport terminal — it’s a gateway to the world, and we’re proud to have Queens’ own artists and entrepreneurs at the heart of it,” said Steve Thody, CEO of JFK Millennium Partners. “Their work reflects the spirit of our city and the stories that make Queens one of the most dynamic communities in the world.”
JMP partnered with the Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning to develop the program. A selection committee comprised of local arts representatives, JMP and the Port Authority selected the artwork and will ensure the program reflects the borough’s creative spirit.
“Queens has always been a borough close to both my heart and to my personal art journey,” said Kim Okoli, who emigrated to the U.S. by way of Queens and is known for her vibrant mixed-media installations. “The communities in Far Rockaway and Flushing formed my early ideas of what the world looked like: teeming with life and laughter, and so much bigger than I could imagine. My piece that will appear in the new JFK Terminal 6 is my love letter to Queens, with a focus on the shared legacy of the different cultures that made a home for themselves here.”
“Art is how I challenge and show up for myself and for others. Sharing connection, resilience, and a reminder that none of us is alone. My hope is that when someone sees my work, it will give them a moment of recognition and comfort, but also inspiration. Or a proof that we’re moving through reality similarly,” said Llannski, whose work explores identity and heritage through textile and sculpture.
“The creative journey I have embarked on is an immigrant story that started in 1977 when I peered out the window of a Pan American 747 jet and saw the island of Manhattan illuminated at sunset. In that moment, I fell in love with New York as a child and it has created a lasting impact which has informed my photography,” said Garfield M. Harry, a photographer whose work captures the emotional depth of urban life. “This project feels close to me for many reasons, stirring up memories of why I love my town, fond memories of working at JFK, and the celebration of diversity in Queens. I hope to share some of that with visitors from around the world.”
Joining the three Queens-based artists in Terminal 6 are two beloved Queens-based retailers, including a graduate of the Port Authority’s Institute of Concessions. Chosen through a competitive process after robust outreach, businesses from the terminal’s home borough will contribute to a passenger experience that is uniquely New York and best in class.
- Beautiful Amore, a skincare and wellness brand rooted in holistic self-care and cultural pride. Founded in Queens, the company blends natural ingredients with affirming messages, creating products that celebrate beauty, empowerment, and identity.
- Aigner Chocolates, a historic Queens chocolate shop founded in 1930, is known for its handcrafted confections and commitment to the home community of Forest Hills. Their presence will offer travelers a taste of tradition and artisanal excellence from the heart and soul of Queens.
“T6 is designed to be a reflection of New York’s vibrant spirit, and that starts with people and businesses who make this city extraordinary,” said Karen Ali, chief operating officer of JFK Millennium Partners. “We’re thrilled to welcome Aigner Chocolates and Beautiful Amore — two exceptional Queens-based retailers — into our T6 concessions program. Their presence brings a true sense of local pride and authenticity to the terminal, offering travelers a meaningful connection to the borough as well as unique, hand-made products they can take with them on their journey.”
“To go from selling from the trunk of my car 22 years ago to now opening inside the brand-new Terminal 6 at JFK International Airport is beyond a dream come true,” said Amerrah Danielson, CEO & founder of Beautiful Amore Skincare, a Queens resident and graduate of the Port Authority’s Institute of Concessions. “I’m thrilled to offer travelers first-class self-care products they can use from takeoff to touchdown. I’m also incredibly grateful for the Institute of Concessions program, which opened doors in the airport world that might have otherwise remained closed. It gave me the knowledge, confidence, and tools to grow from a small local brand into one that now welcomes travelers from around the globe.”
“We’re incredibly honored to bring Aigner Chocolates to Terminal 6 and share a taste of Queens with travelers from around the world,” said Rachel Kellner, co-owner of the Queens-based Aigner Chocolates. “For nearly 100 years, our family business has been rooted in this community — handcrafting chocolates that celebrate connection, tradition, and joy. This opportunity allows us to showcase the spirit of Queens on a global stage, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome travelers with something sweet from home.”
