Interimaginary Departures

A Portal to the Impossible

Step beyond the ordinary at Interimaginary Departures, an extraordinary art installation nestled within Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. This isn't just a waiting area; it's a meticulously crafted departure lounge that serves as a gateway to over 120 fictional worlds drawn from literature, film, animation, and games. Created by artist Janet Zweig, the installation transforms the space near Gate 14 into Gate ∞, a place where the logic of travel meets the boundless realms of imagination.

A Disorienting Masterpiece

The true magic of Interimaginary Departures lies in its surreal design. The entire lounge, including custom red benches, walls, and ceiling grids, is constructed at a precise seven-degree angle to the existing airport architecture. This subtle yet jarring tilt creates a disorienting visual effect, making it feel as though two realities are colliding. The installation draws inspiration from the novel The City and the City, evoking a sense of wonder and questioning perception.

Your Ticket to Fantasy

At the heart of the experience is a unique ticket machine. After answering a series of quirky questions, visitors receive a personalized printed or virtual boarding pass for their chosen fictional destination. Imagine flying Narnia via Spellbound Airlines, or taking JaneAir to Pemberley. A Flight Information Display System (FIDS) board lists these imaginary flights with intriguing facts, while playful audio announcements, voiced by Peter Drew, guide you through your fantastical journey. It's a passion project taken to an obsessive extreme, offering a moment of whimsical escape amidst the hustle of travel.