Friday 29 July

Grants needed to conserve Mudge murals

Council will investigate external funding options to restore and maintain community murals painted by local artist Graeme Mudge.

“Doing nothing will result in further deterioration and the gradual loss of a significant body of work,” says community and recreation manager Andrew White.

An estimate of $369,000 is initially needed to preserve at least 14 of the 18 murals, including digitizing the murals, as outlined in a conservation plan by renowned art conservator Carolina Izzo.

Ms Izzo was commissioned by Council to assess restorations needed for murals on council-owned or connected buildings, and digitize Mr Mudge’s portfolio of mural sketches.

The assessment did not include three murals on privately owned buildings and the ‘town crier’ mural on the back of the soon-to-be demolished Council building. It was decided last month that this mural would be digitized and not restored after finding asbestos in the painted panels.

The murals had previously been maintained by Mr Mudge before his passing in 2014, his wife Lisette Mudge has entrusted the portfolio to Council and requested Council take over the maintenance.

The Art In Public Places Trust would be willing to help with raising funds for initial restorations.

Council has a budget of $10,000 for maintenance of public art annually and $20,000 for new art, any funding for capital work or maintenance on the Mudge murals would need to be included in the 2018 – 2028 Long Term Plan.

“The murals showcase the history, industry and lifestyle of people in Gisborne, restoring the collection is an investment in our community.”

ENDS

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