Case Study
Conservation of the
Samuel Spencer Monument
September, 2002
A joint project of:
APAL - The Public Art Legacy Fund of the Community Foundation of Atlanta
MPAC - The Metropolitan Public Art Coalition
Before Conservation
As part of the enlarged and redeveloped Hardy Ivy Park for the 1996 Olympics, the Spencer Monument was relocated from Brookwood Station to the North end of the park.
Although washed for the Olympics, the sculpture had suffered serious deterioration through long years of neglect, including both the effects of the environment and improper maintenance.
During Conservation
Nationally recognized conservator Nicholas Veloz and patina expert Patrick Kipper begin work on the sculpture in September, 2002.
Veloz here is removing dirt and old patina with his patented walnut shell pressure cleaning treatment (Photo Coming Soon)
Kipper here is applying new patina to match the original of a century ago. (Photo Coming Soon)
Several breaks in the work are taken to explain the work to classes and other groups. (Photo Coming Soon)
After Conservation
The finished conservation project after waxing (Photo Coming Soon)
The project culminates with a rededication and a proclamation from Mayor Franklin proclaiming September 24th, Public Art Conservation Day in Atlanta.
