Design Excellence Award Bestowed upon TPA’s Impressive Flamingo Sculpture, Phoebe

Phoebe holds a special place in our hearts. This magnificent 21-foot flamingo sculpture, located at the heart of Tampa International Airport, has become an iconic backdrop for travelers seeking memorable photos. Now, this beloved sculpture has achieved a significant design accolade.

Phoebe has been honored with a prestigious CODAWorx Award, a recognition that came after a rigorous evaluation by an esteemed panel of 18 jurors, featuring some of the most influential figures in the art and design realm. They meticulously reviewed and scored nearly 100 entries, ultimately crowning “HOME” as the victor in the Transportation category.

What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that the public had a say in it too. Phoebe secured one of two “People’s Choice Awards” with an impressive 3,000+ votes from the public.

The mastermind behind this captivating project was Matthew Mazzotta, serving as the lead artist. Collaborating on the endeavor, titled “HOME,” were talented individuals including Sujin Lim, Stephanie Yeung, Daniel Shieh, and Yalun Li.

HOME” is an art installation thoughtfully designed for its specific location, offering travelers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the world of a bird that symbolizes Florida—the flamingo.

This immersive installation spans from floor to ceiling, creating an illusion of being submerged underwater alongside the graceful flamingo in search of sustenance. The deliberate magnification of this iconic pink bird envelops us in its environment, serving as a poignant reminder that we all inhabit the same shared home.

Conceived as a spectacle to reintroduce a sense of interaction within this airport area, “HOME” captivates visitors by drawing them into an immersive encounter. Here, people can bask in ever-changing illuminations, strike poses with colossal birds, capture memorable photos, and relish the joy of being together in this enchanting, ethereal setting.