Plumage Passage
at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Ernesto Maranje teamed up with the Broward County Cultural Division to paint a mural at the Harbormaster Tower. He had previously painted a mural titled Avian Odyssey at the same location in 2019 and was invited to reimagine the space in 2024.
Plumage and Passage celebrates the convergence of Port Everglades' maritime spirit and the Everglades' natural splendor. Adorning the Harbormaster Tower, the mural showcases two of Florida's most iconic birds: the majestic great blue heron and the vibrant roseate spoonbill. These native species, emblematic of the Everglades' rich biodiversity, create a powerful visual impact for port visitors.
The mural's design utilizes the tower's unique architecture. On one side, a great blue heron stands sentinel against a serene beach horizon, while the other features a graceful roseate spoonbill in flight. Palm fronds unify the composition, intertwining with abstract organic forms that evoke the fluid boundary between air and sea.
This mural serves as a gateway between two worlds: the bustling port, where voyagers embark on oceanic adventures, and the tranquil wilderness of the Everglades. The piece not only enhances the port's aesthetic but also reminds travelers of south Florida's natural wonders and the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems.
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Plumage Passage
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Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
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Broward County Cultural Division / Port Everglades
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2025
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Latex paint