Unveiling the winning Marco Historical Museum mural, artist

Photo by QUENTIN ROUX, Staff

Artist Paul Arsenault, whose painting depicting Calusa Indian life will be transformed to a massive ceramic tile mural on the wall of the museum's main building behind him, talks during a function at his official introduction as the winning mural artist.

Photo by QUENTIN ROUX, Staff

Guests take a look at a mock-up banner of the mural. When complete, the tile mural will be the largest of its kind in North America.

Photo by QUENTIN ROUX, Staff

Historical Society member Bill Perdichizzi makes a point during a tour of the museum. Completion date is five months away.

Notching up another milestone in the rapid evolution of the Marco Island Historical Museum, founders introduced winning mural painter Paul Arsenault at a small function held Wednesday.

The museum is set to open in February, 2010.

At the function, two major sponsors, M&I Bank and the Marco Eagle were honored.

In his response M&I Bank Southwest Florida President Tom Wagor said, “The mural will leave a nice legacy for the people of Marco Island.”

The bank had been associated with the Marco Island Historical Society since the beginning of its $4 million fundraising campaign.

Representing the Naples News Media Group, to which the Eagle is affiliated, Mary Quinton said the group has always supported programs that contribute to the culture in Southwest Florida.

“This museum will be our window to the past,” Quinton said.

Arsenault, whose painting will eventually take the form of a 8 by 40-foot tile mural on the east-facing wall of the museum, said he’d enjoyed working with a professional and efficient group.

“The museum is creating a showcase for the Calusa treasure trove,” he said.

Significantly, said the society’s Bill Perdichizzi during a quick tour of the complex, the mural will be the largest original art ceramic tile exterior mural in North America.

Arsenault’s image was selected by votes cast this summer online and during showings at M&I Bank and the Marco Eagle.

Arsenault’s painting is based on archaeological research conducted on Marco Island and reflects the life and times of the Calusa people.