A six-metre long mural depicting the colonial history of Parramatta has been successfully conserved during the demolition of the former Council Chambers building.
The building was removed to make way for the development of Parramatta Square.
The mural by acclaimed Australian artist Tom Thompson, titled ‘Parramatta Road, accenting significant figures of early Parramatta’ has been safely removed and stored after adorning the foyer of the building for nearly 60 years.
The conservation process involved the application of several coats of a removable varnish, layers of Japanese tissue attached to the artwork with removable glue, canvas, padding and plywood.
A section of wall that the mural is attached to was sealed and reinforced with steel and concrete before the nine-tonne structure was removed by two cranes under the supervision of conservation experts.
The removal process took about two weeks during which time the mural was carefully cleaned before the protective measures were applied.
City of Parramatta Administrator Amanda Chadwick said the preservation of Tom Thompson’s mural had been declared a success by the expert firm that oversaw the process.
“This project has ensured that this important piece of public art will continue to be enjoyed by future generations of Parramatta residents and visitors to our City. “It was an awesome sight to see two cranes lift the mural from the former Chambers building and the preservation and protection of this important piece of public art is a credit to everyone involved,” Ms Chadwick said.
In June 2016, City of Parramatta resolved to preserve the mural and incorporate it into the completed $2 billion Parramatta Square precinct.
Council is currently investigating a suitable location, including its landmark civic and community building at 5 Parramatta Square.
“Obviously there were challenges in removing a mural of this scale but the effort was well worth it, given the significance of Tom Thompson’s work as a rare example of public art.
“Congratulations must go to everyone involved in the successful preservation project, including Parramatta Square project managers Aver, demolition company DECC and International Conservation Services, who prepared the mural for removal,” Ms Chadwick said.
International Conservation Services’ Senior Conservation Manager Adam Godijn said the protective measures applied were safe to leave until the mural is uncovered and the varnish could be left in place indefinitely, or removed as required.
“I’m happy to report that there was no visible evidence of cracking of the paint surface or plaster after the mural was removed,” he said.
“Any touch ups can be carried out when the mural is installed into its final location.”
