Historically, murals have had their periods of being increasingly popular, art that adds vibrancy and vitality to architectural works – often depicted history. Averaging a lifespan of 20-30 years, a mural that is properly planned, prepared, painted, and maintained, according to the American Institute for Conservation’s Heritage Preservation’s Rescue Public Murals (RPM), may see less significant environmental deterioration such as fading and flaking, overtime. At John Canning & Co. our philosophy of “do no harm” applies to all areas of our work - specifically related to this topic, mural restoration, conservation, and preservation - highlighting the maintenance of murals for renewed lifespans.
Canning mural conservationists gather the following information that guides them when approaching any mural – structure history, original method of execution, materials analysis, original mural image, support, and any interventions done previously. A support is any surface on which a mural is painted, which can be plaster, wood, metal, plastic, canvas, to name a few. It is only by attaining this information that we can ensure our work will preserve and enhance the historic fabric of the building. Many of our engagements begin with archival research, current condition assessments – visual and scientific, and discussions with project personnel to appropriately frame the work of the treatment plan.
Mural conservation cleaning, stabilizing, and reattachment may be necessary if original paint layers have flaked, chipped or peeled. This process involves the application of a harmless cleaning solution to the paint and finishes, removing incompatible varnishes, overpaint, and years of accumulated dirt; all to restore original color. The processes of mural conservation, preservation, and restoration all begin in this manner, however the work may include reconstruction. Two conservation principles – knowing and understanding the original materials and the original method of execution – must be internalized by the conservator when stabilizing and reconstructing damaged or lost areas of art. Reconstruction typically means recreating lost portions of a mural. Existing evidence of the original subject will be documented through tracing, imaging, and other available resources to meticulously reinstate the missing features in a seamless manner.
To extend a murals lifespan, mural maintenance is a necessary and ongoing process that involves periodic condition monitoring by a mural curator or trained professional to mitigate environmental damages. The process of monitoring conditions and documenting any interventions will create a historical road map for any necessary future work performed by a professional. The work conducted by these experts will result in the highest quality outcomes that will last for years to come. These aspects should be discussed in the mural planning stage to ensure the fine art will have routine maintenance assessments to keep the public awed and inspired by history. Canning has more than 45 years of knowledge and expertise in historic mural conservation, preservation, and restoration work to handle some of the most complex mural projects, so Canning welcomes the outreach to discuss any mural project.
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Latest Articles & Announcements |
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What to Look For in a Professional Mural Restoration Company |
Restoring a mural is a delicate process that requires a combination of artistry, science, and a deep respect for cultural heritage. Choosing the right professional mural restoration company is essential to ensure that the artwork is rejuvenated while preserving its historical and cultural significance. |
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| Historic Wood Restoration: What to Expect & How to Prepare
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Wood has been used as a building material from the earliest periods of architecture – domestic, religious, civic. Due to its organic composition, wood is susceptible to decay and deterioration. By taking detailed and planned steps, a historic wood conservator can fully transform deteriorated wood in a building into a renewed piece of historic artistry.
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Meet Canning’s Historic Preservation Manager, David Gough. A seven-year John Canning & Co. veteran with over twenty-five years of industry experience including estimating, project management, and executing high quality architectural finishes in restoration and conservation projects for public, private, and commercial clients.
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Entering its 8th year, The National Fund for Sacred Places will be accepting Letters of Intent for their annually awarded grants – to be presented in October 2024. The deadline for submitting a Letter of Intent is Thursday, February 29, 2024. Partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Partners for Sacred Places, The National Fund for Sacred Places invests in community-serving historic houses of worship across America by providing financial and technical support.
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In recognizing Black History Month, the National Trust for Historic Preservation's African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund is awarding $4 million in its second round of Preserving Black Churches grants to 31 historic Black churches across the U.S. With over $95 million in funding, the Action Fund is the largest U.S. resource dedicated to preserving historic African American places. Since launching Preserving Black Churches in 2022, the Action Fund has provided $8.7 million in grants to over 70 historic churches.
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Next Month - this Friday, March 1, 2024 - APTNE will host, in-person and virtually, the 2024 annual meeting and symposium featuring presentations from professionals, emerging professionals, and local students on the integration of preservation and facilities management. As a proud sponsor of APTNE, Canning encourages attendees to learn what it takes to develop, update, and maintain an institution from a small historic house museum to a complex university campus.
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Upcoming – Thursday, April 18, 2024 – Connecticut Architecture Foundation (CAF) will host the 2024 Distinguished Leadership Award. The Foundation works by funding educational programs and opportunities, providing grants for research and awarding scholarships to promising students pursuing an education in architecture.
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Interested in Seeing More of Our Work? Follow Us on TikTok! |
This 18th century painting undergoes mural conservation inclusive of varnish & overpaint removal techniques. This prepares the mural for further conservation steps and the application of reversible protective coatings. |
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We understand the importance in sharing our expertise and knowledge in our field. Besides the monthly newsletter and blogs we post, we also develop and share downloadable resources to help guide you in your conservation, preservation and restoration projects. Check out the Resources page and see if any of the resources can help answer some of your questions and provide a better understanding of some of the intricacies in the preservation field.
Check out our Featured Downloadable Resource below.
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When preparing for a historic restoration or new design, it is important to understand the history of the materials and aesthetic of the building’s interior. Paint colors, wallpapers and decorative designs contribute immense detail to a space. The value of the information collected during a paint investigation or analysis specifically applies to historic restoration. |
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As a national nonprofit preservation organization, the National Trust for Historic Preservation works to save America's historic places and is a great resource for anyone looking to learn more or get involved. |
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The American Institute for Conservation and the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation work together to promote the preservation and protection of cultural heritage. Partner with us to further that mission. |
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JOIN THE CONVERSATION #PerfectingPreservation #jcanningcrew |
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