Glasgow Airport Collection

HS Projects commissioned ‘The Golden City’, 1996, an emblematic work by Steven Campbell that became a centrepiece of the Glasgow Airport Art Collection.

“Campbell’s vision for the airport mural is inspired by the view as you approach the city from the north.  Cupped by dark woods, ploughed fields and flowers … an idealised and idyllic Glasgow, but one bound to please travellers.” Clare Henry, Glasgow Herald.

‘The Golden City’ celebrates the City of Glasgow, greeting passengers at the airport as they processed their way through International Departures.

“The painting is made up of three views of the City of Glasgow: the Clyde Estuary; the view from the countryside; and a view from the University Tower. The symbolism of the painting centres around the story of the emblem of Glasgow. It also takes account of St Mungo’s stories, trying to give history a vision. I’ve aimed to get the balance between nature and the city; the ‘Dear Green Place’, idea. It’s been tempting to add something dramatic, but it would have been the wrong thing to do for the location. It’s not the place to be dark and moody. No way. I want people to be uplifted; invigorated. I love Glasgow!” Steven Campbell.

‘The Golden City’ is now in the collection of the Paisley Museum and Art Galleries, Renfrewshire, Scotland which will re-open in 2024 following an ambitious refurbishment.