PROPOSED MURAL FOR THE GIBRALTAR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

BY PAUL CAVILLA

This is a suggested mural project aiming to take visitors back to the year 1939, when Gibraltar’s first international airport was under construction. Drawing from archival photographs and historical references, the artwork depicts the early days of the airport, showcasing the aircraft and construction methods typical of that era.

This proposed scene offers a vivid and colourful portrayal of Gibraltar as it was, highlighting the landscape and styles of the time. Through this mural, I seek to evoke the excitement and forward-thinking spirit that characterized the airport’s inception. In contrast to the modern architecture of the new terminal, this historical depiction provides cultural depth and a rich sense of history, enhancing the airport’s ambiance with a meaningful connection to its origins.

PROJECT EXECUTION

Given the time needed to create a work of this size and complexity, painting on site will not be feasible. As I’ve done with other projects of this scale in the past, the piece would be painted offsite on panels or canvas and then installed onsite when complete. This ensures that scaffolding is only erected for a matter of days. The end result is indistinguishable from a piece painted directly on the wall. In the example above, I’m suggesting that the air vents be covered by the mural so as to maximize visual impact. I would also suggest that directional lighting be installed so that the piece is properly illuminated for nighttime viewing.

PROJECT BUDGET

Proposed is a highly detailed work of art, painterly in style, and containing many human figures and tightly rendered aircraft, industrial equipment, and landscape views of the Rock. The objective would be to create a world-class mural and a new landmark for Gibraltar and its tourism industry. Below is an approximation of the costs.

Design, creation, and execution – £15,000

Paint and materials – £1,500

Installation – £1,500

Lighting – £1,500

Approximate cost – £19,500

IN CONCLUSION

I have been painting large-scale artwork in hotels, restaurants, casinos, and public spaces for over 30 years, and have the professional skills and knowledge to create a first-rate work of art for the Gibraltar Airport. Despite the fact that I was born in Canada, all my family is Gibraltarian, and I have been steeped in her culture all my life. As a new resident of the Rock, I’m ready and eager to offer my services to Gibraltar doing what I do best. Painting. I see our new terminal as an inspiring example of modern architecture, but one that is in desperate need of the dynamic energy that only original art can provide. In this proposal, I’ve focused my suggestions on the main wall in the central vestibule, but it would be my pleasure to offer up creative solutions that could add life to any number of locations throughout the building.

—Paul Cavilla

To explore more of my work and see other murals I have painted, please CLICK HERE

CONTACT

Email: paulcavilla@gmail.com

Website: www.paulcavilla.com

Mobile: 34 683 44 66 02