Date: June 12, 2007
Governors State University
Contact: Eric Matanyi
Phone: (708) 534-4044
Email: e-matanyi@govst.edu
Fax: (708) 534-8399
For Immediate Release
University Park, IL, June 12, 2007 – Even contemporary sculpture - often created with industrial materials and coated with modern miracle paints - needs care and conservation. The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University in University Park recently conducted a workshop, directed by Andrzej Dajnowski of Conservation of Sculptural Objects Studio, Inc., to learn more effective maintenance and conservation techniques.
Dajnowski’s firm has worked on high-profile projects such as the restoration of Louis Sullivan’s landmark Carson, Pirie, Scott building on State Street in Chicago and Illinois sculptor Lorado Taft’s Fountain of Time. He led Kevin Barto, GSU Superintendent of Grounds, and Geoffrey Bates, Director and Curator of the park, through a two-day, step-by-step series of
lessons on the continuous care of the 26 artworks in the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park collection.
“This workshop provided us with the information we needed to conduct standard maintenance on the sculptures which have been entrusted to our care,” said Bates.
“For example, we learned about the differences between the care and cleaning of painted metal and cast bronze sculpture. Mr. Dajnowski showed us basic techniques, like using a very mild soap developed for livestock washing, or employing simple wooden shims to scrape residue from areas before cleaning. We discovered the proper way to apply a protective coating of wax to bronze. These procedures are invaluable and will enable us to extend the life and condition of the artworks for years without conducting major restoration projects.”
Bates added that a handbook of basic techniques and a schedule for regular inspection and care of the works will be created as a result of the instruction.
The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park at Governors State University includes important artwork by a variety of nationally and internationally recognized sculptors. The 26 sculptures are spread over 100 acres of prairie landscape and are accessible to the public free-of-charge from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year.
Governors State University is located at 1 University Parkway, University Park. For more information about the park and its programs, contact Geoffrey Bates, Director and Curator, at (708) 534-4848 or sculpture@govst.edu.
