ATL celebrates Atlanta Hawks’ five-decade run with art exhibit
ATL and Atlanta Hawks officials celebrate opening of Atlanta Hawks exhibit at Hartsfield-Jackson’s Domestic Terminal atrium April 9. © 2018 Decisive Moment Events
By Anika Robertson
Senior Editor/Assistant Public Relations Manager
ATL and Atlanta Hawks leaders cut a ribbon April 9 to officially open an art exhibit at the Airport commemorating the 50th anniversary of the iconic NBA franchise.
This exhibit features photographs and artifacts that trace the Atlanta Hawk’s evolution and honor its “profound impact,” Airport Senior Deputy General Manager Michael Smith told dozens in the Domestic Terminal atrium.
Atlanta Hawks jerseys of four top players – “Pistol Pete” Maravich, Lou Hudson, Dikembe Mutombo and Dominique Wilkins – are featured in the installation, coordinated by the Airport Art program and located behind the west elevators in the atrium. Other artifacts include trophies, vintage photos and an array of media credentials.
Legendary Hall of Famer Wilkins said he’s grateful that the Hawks’ legacy is now being appreciated.
“It was a pleasure coming from the University of Georgia to help build this rich history,” he said.
Veteran Hawks announcer Steve Holman, who hasn’t missed a game in more than 33 years, said they’ve shared some amazing history, adding that “management has great plans for the future.”
The Atlanta Hawks cheerleaders performed during the ceremony while team mascot Harry the Hawk teased fans and encouraged goofy photos.
Atlanta Hawks Owner Jami Gertz said Atlanta has been welcoming after she, her husband and partners obtained ownership in 2015.
As for the future, “we are looking to bring the Naismith Trophy here to Atlanta,” Gertz said. “We want championships.”
Showcasing the Hawks exhibit and other homegrown brands at ATL makes sense, Smith said.
“For many passengers, Hartsfield-Jackson is their first – and only stop – in Atlanta,” he said. “In fact, of the more than 103 million passengers who navigate through this Airport each year, some 60 million never venture out of these walls to explore what this City has to offer. We’d like to change that.”
The Hawks exhibit runs through June.
