MURAL CELEBRATING ISLAND’S HERITAGE COULD BE PAINTED ON COLUMBINE BUILDING

An eye-catching mural, celebrating the Isle of Wight’s historical industrial innovations and iconic wildlife, could be added to the side of the Columbine Building in East Cowes. Plans have been unveiled for a 2-part mural to be painted onto the side of the famous ‘Union Flag’ building by local artist Alice Malia. The 1st image would bring the white-tailed sea eagles to life — clutching a fish from the water — following the successful reintroduction of the birds of prey to the Island. The 2nd part incorporates the history of the Columbine Building and Venture Quays over the last century, in a blue monotone style. The seaside site has been used for boat building, as early as the 1830s, and the production of aircraft, including the Black Arrow Rocket, seaplanes and hovercrafts. The mural would span the length of the wall — roughly 70m wide by 12m tall. The wall has recently been uncovered, after being hidden for decades, following the demolition of the neighbouring Medina Shed workshop. Planning documents, submitted by the Isle of Wight Council which is behind the proposal, say the current wall is an ugly industrial blot in the core of the town and the mural would enhance the view. It says the artwork would give both visitors and residents an informative and enjoyable experience, and create a memorial to the craft created in the area. The final design of the artwork is still being developed. Other pieces of art created by Alice Malia are already on show around the Island, with large pieces in the centre of Newport, along Post Office Lane and the High Street. You can view the plans, 24/00109/FUL, on the Isle of Wight Council’s planning register. Comments can be submitted until 1st March.