The story behind it is as great as the painting

David Olivera stands in front of his masterpiece, "Gateway to the Empire," which is amazing. The details are amazing, but even more amazing is the story behind the painting. It took David four years to complete this epic piece of art. At first we marveled at the image itself, how well the water was depicted and the reflection of the Titanic. Then we noticed all the details of the city of Southampton.

But the real reason that the painting is so fascinating is all the research that went into it. The painting is as much a work of history as it is a work of art. All the details in the painting are immaculately accurate. David researched every little detail. He recreated places that no longer exist. Many of the buildings were destroyed in World War II and others just deteriorated. David used historical maps and plans and he actually sought out the manufacturer of the cranes to get the exact specs.

The Southampton City Council was a big help, too, in providing details on what was present at the time. The painting is remarkable, there is so much detail. An old church, an elegant hotel, all the docks and trains and warehouses are all there as they were in 1912.

The painting is at the Coconut Grove Arts Festival Gallery at the Mayfair Atrium. Stop by any weekday to view it between 10 am and 5 pm.