Ernesto Kunde’s mural will be displayed on the terminal for a year
As the winner of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ Call to Artists contest, Brazilian artist Ernesto Kunde created a mural for NCL’s PortMiami terminal and received a $100,000 award.
He also will have a 10-day residency in the Artist Loft on an Oceania Cruises ship.
NCLH’s Call to Artists contest is a collaboration with Miami’sNader Museum.
A new mural each year
The initiative called on emerging and established South Florida artists to submit original work to be considered for the terminal mural. Each year, the program resets and a new mural design is selected, allowing NCLH and the Nader Museum to support artists for years to come.
Kunde’s mural is inspired by mangroves and the ocean.
‘Growing up in south Brazil and now living in Miami, landscapes and ecosystems continue to be important and influential in my life. South Florida is home to hundreds of native plants, and I wanted this mural to capture their natural beauty,’ he said.
Art a ‘passion point’ for NCLH
‘Art is a passion point for our company and we’re privileged to have this remarkable piece showcased on our beautiful terminal,’ NCLH President and CEO Frank Del Rio said. ‘Our new building has enhanced Miami’s iconic skyline and this commissioned work of art complements the stunning architecture of our facility while providing an interesting backdrop for the thousands of guests we welcome on our ships every year.’
At nearly 166,500 square feet, the LEED Gold certified terminal designed by Miami-based BermelloAjamil & Partners accommodates ships of up to 5,000 passengers.
‘Promoting and encouraging local artists should be a priority of every one in our community; art is what brings us together and what will bring important tourism to our beloved city of Miami,’ said Gary Nader, founder of the Nader Museum and co-creator of the Call to Artists contest. ‘This is a significant award, and I congratulate NCLH for not only making this initiative available to artists, but for providing enjoyment to the millions of people that visit us.’
Details about the second annual Call to Artists will be announced later this year.
