30 years after the 1996 Olympic Games, Atlanta once again welcomed the global visitors for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. To commemorate this anniversary, this installation celebrates the invention of the "air dancer," which first debuted at the 1996 Closing Ceremony as 60 ft. tall, towering inflatable artworks. Originally designed by artists Peter Minshall and Doron Gazit, these attention-grabbing wacky waving dancers are now part of the everyday experience. Air Dance is intended to be a joyful beacon, highlighting the talent of Atlanta's artists while referencing the little-known history of these eccentric objects. Air Dance was first displayed at the FIFA Fan Festival in Centennial Olympic Park from June 11 - July 15, 2026.
Artwork by ARRRTADDICT, EVEREMAN, George F. Baker III, Drew Borders, Dr. Dax, Yoyo Ferro, KILLAMARI, Barry Lee, GREG MIKE, Jasmine Nicole Williams, and Melissa Word.
"Air Dance" was designed and commissioned by Downtown Atlanta Inc.
Platform build by Cable Carpentry.
Air dancers produced by Look Our Way.