Flying colours: Cork Airport unveils mural depicting 'wonder of travel'

A new mural at Cork Airport, designed by the Ardú Street Art project, has been unveiled.

The artwork, entitled The Wonder of Travel, was painted by artists Shane O’Driscoll and Peter Martin, of Ardú Street Art.

The Wonder of Travel paints a narrative of the history of travel at Cork Airport, contrasting its early origins with the modern era of flight. The mural spans 180sq m on the southern facade of the multi-storey car park at the airport.

Fianna Fáil councillor Fergal Dennehy, Lord Mayor of Cork, said it was a pleasure to be able to perform the official unveiling.

“While the mural captures the wonder and awe of air travel amongst younger generations, it certainly resonates with all ages, as it shows the importance of air travel and international connectivity on our island nation,” said Mr Dennehy.

“Industry, commerce, and tourism all stand to benefit from good air connectivity, and Cork Airport plays an important role in the Cork economy by strengthening those connections.

“I wish to commend the work of Peter Martin and Shane O’Driscoll in creating this marvellous mural, all made possible thanks to Cork Airport’s community fund.”

Niall MacCarthy, managing director at Cork Airport, added: “There is a place for art and culture in the built environment.

“This mural, proudly sponsored by Cork Airport, through our community fund, places art at the centre of our main passenger walkway to our short-term car park and brightens up considerably what was previously a dull, concrete wall.

“Everything which makes the passenger journey easier, more authentic, and more interesting is of importance to us.

“Cork City Council have also taken the initiative to brighten up dull walls in our city centre with street art, and we commend them in this regard.”

Ardú Street Art was established in Cork during the lockdown of October 2020, originally commissioning seven of Ireland’s most renowned street artists to create large-scale murals at key Cork city centre locations.