Faslane has a new centrepiece after graffiti artist Barry the Cat visited the naval base.
The interior of HMS Neptune Admin Building – the administrative hub of the base -recently underwent a major refurbishment.
The exterior, however, was a blank canvas and base executive officer, Commander Peter Noblett, saw an opportunity to celebrate HMS Neptune and the Submarine Service.
“During a visit to the Drumfork Community Centre in Helensburgh I was impressed by the large murals that had been painted on many of the walls,” he said.
“I found out that the artist was the highly regarded ‘Barry the Cat’ so I got in touch to discuss options for a new HMS Neptune sign.
“I provided some suggestions for the scene and Barry provided several stunning pieces of artwork, based on ancient statues of Neptune. The first draft had a Russian submarine in it, but that was easily sorted!”
The Glasgow-based artist – real name Barry Jenkins – merged myth, nature, and the Royal Navy’s submarines for the final mural which encapsulates the Silent Service.
Barry first became interested in graffiti art in 1986 through his love of hip-hop culture.
His work has brightened up walls throughout Glasgow and the surrounding areas with several local business displaying his artwork on shutters and exterior walls.
“It took me four days to complete the mural,” he said.
“The most difficult part was getting the beard and hair right on the depiction of Neptune.
“It’s probably the most unusual place I have ever painted a mural.
“It was quite daunting coming into the high security base, but the sailors from HMS Neptune looked after me well.”
On Tuesday, sailors, submariners and civilian staff gathered as naval base commander Commodore Bob Anstey officially unveiled the mural.
Commander Noblett continued: “There was also a lot of preparation and other work required.
“I’d like to also thank the Babcock team who rendered the wall to create the perfect painting surface, and who upgraded the lighting.”
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