The official unveiling of the "Adoption is in the Air" statue will take place on December 3 at 1 p.m. at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. The event is presented by Heart Gallery East Texas, a program of The Fostering Collective, in collaboration with the City of Tyler and Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.  

The statue will serve as a beacon of hope, raising awareness of children in foster care who are waiting for a forever family. Travelers arriving at Tyler Pounds Airport will be welcomed by a powerful message of love, permanency and community support for adoption.  

Heart Gallery East Texas is especially proud to dedicate this installation in honor of Melvina and Herb Buie, a family whose legacy of love and adoption has impacted the Tyler community. The Buies, who adopted two children, have long inspired others through their commitment to providing a sense of belonging and stability. Their story continues to influence families throughout East Texas, reminding everyone of the transformative power of opening hearts and homes.  

At the local level, Heart Gallery programs play a vital role in helping youth in foster care connect with potential adoptive families. Through beautifully curated photography exhibits and community partnerships, Heart Galleries introduce the public to children who are hoping for a family. These programs focus on helping children who typically wait longer for adoption, such as older youth, sibling groups, and children with higher needs, find the loving family every child deserves.  

The "Adoption is in the Air" statue was created by acclaimed artist Gary Lee Price, whose beloved works are also displayed at The Children’s Park in Tyler. This piece is traveling from the Meyer Gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Price will join the community for the unveiling ceremony. His sculptures and public installations can be found across the globe, from Iceland to Hong Kong and numerous locations throughout North America.  

Bringing this beautiful work to Tyler was made possible by the Melvina and Herb Buie Circle of Friends, a generous group of supporters including Southside Bank, the R.W. Fair Foundation, Cynthia and Whit Riter, the Anderson-Vukelja Foundation, John Soules Foods, and Rhonda and Larry Parker. Their commitment ensures that this meaningful symbol will encourage countless families and shine a light on the urgent need for adoptive homes in East Texas.  

For more information about Heart Gallery East Texas or the unveiling event, contact Gillian Sheridan at Gillian@HeartGalleryETX.org or (903) 707-8515.