As you probably know, earlier this year, Fine Art Shippers handled the complicated project of the Banksy mural relocation from the South Bronx, NY, to Bridgeport, СT. The process was challenging in technical terms, but with the help of our reliable partner, the structural steel company Chesakl, we managed to extract and move the mural to another state without damage.
This summer, our work on the project continues, and we have recently successfully completed its final stage – restoration.
SOLONOI Joined the Restoration Team
After the successful completion of the relocation stage, Fine Art Shippers was also actively engaged in the consecutive restoration of the mural. We discussed the project with many reputable artists, restorers, and art conservators to find the best solution for mural preservation. At some point in our search, we contacted SOCIÉTÉ ART VILLERAY in Montreal, Canada, which referred us to Emile Vidmar and Pascal Vaillancourt, an artist duo known as SOLONOI, as the most capable candidate for the mural restoration. We already had the pleasure of meeting SOLONOI at Artexpo New York 2024, so it was just the right solution.
An Inside Look at the Banksy Mural Restoration Process
SOLONOI arrived from Canada specifically to help us with the mural’s restoration and touch-up to remove the signs of wear and tear and occasional damage endured by street art in the open air. So, what did this process look like?
Initial Assessment
Emile Vidmar and Pascal Vaillancourt started their work by carefully assessing the condition of the mural to determine the scope of the required work. SOLONOI also installed tarps as a protective layer for the period of restoration work.
Cleaning
The next stage involved delicate cleaning of the mural with air guns and soft brushes. This way, SOLONOI removed the layer of dust and dirt that had been accumulating on the mural for years of its street life.
UV Silicone Protection
After cleaning, the mural was covered with an ultraviolet silicone finishing layer that will serve as a flaking and fading shield for the artwork. This finishing is needed to ensure comprehensive protection against the fluctuation of external conditions to which the art object may be exposed during exhibitions or while in transit.
Protection for the Restoration Period
SOLONOI also ensured the mural’s comprehensive shading for the entire period of restoration work.
We were deeply fascinated with the professionalism and attention to detail that SOLONOI showcased during our collaboration. The team of Fine Art Shippers will be looking forward to new joint projects with our Canadian partners aimed at the preservation of unique cultural heritage.