Halifax’s Maritime Centre, the Barrington-street home of startup hub Volta, now sports a new mural celebrating Nova Scotia’s innovation community.

Painted by local artist John McPartland, who does business under the name ABSEN, the mural was paid for by ONSIDE, Halifax Innovation District, Volta, Slate Asset Management and the Downtown Halifax Business Commission. It faces Salter Street, directly below Volta's balcony.

The mural is part of the Business Commission’s Gritty to Pretty program, which aims to beautify downtown Halifax.

ABSEN, who also works full-time as an engineer, won the contract earlier this year. His design was inspired by conversations with Halifax residents, in which he asked what innovation and entrepreneurship meant to them.

“‘A rising tide lifts all boats’ metaphorically represents this communal growth,” said ABSEN in a press release, describing the mural’s nautical-themed design. “It's a phrase that pays special relation to the character of our coastal province and the industries of ocean tech and shipbuilding in which Nova Scotia has become a prominent global player.

“Two grounded fishing boats rise through the fabrics of our society to emerge as a large research vessel, afloat at sea. The blossoming of Nova Scotia's provincial flower, the Mayflower, depicts the emergence of ideas that come to a practical fruition.

“The gears are to acknowledge engineers and STEM fields that are on the forefront of innovation. And lastly, a young woman with an ambitious gaze searches into the future.”