CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
June 2024
Prepared for
City of Manhattan Beach
1400 Highland Ave.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Eric Brinkman, Cultural Arts Supervisor
(310) 802-5404 | [email protected]
Andrew Booras, Cultural Arts Coordinator
(310) 802-5451 | [email protected]
Prepared by
RLA Conservation, Inc.
Conservation of Art + Architecture
5418 Packard St.
Los Angeles, CA 90019
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. SURVEY SUMMARY 4
1.) INTRODUCTION AND METHODOLOGY 4
2.) GENERAL OBSERVATIONS ON COLLECTIONS 5
3.) RATING SYSTEM 6
4.) PRIORITY RATINGS 7
5.) RECOMMENDATIONS 10
6.) CONCLUSIONS 10
II. MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS & SCHEDULE 11
III. SAMPLE FORMS 14
IV. INDIVIDUAL SURVEY REPORTS 19
Amell – Untitled (Utility Box # 8) 20
Ball-Nogues Studio – Strand Bench: Luke Erin Gilroy 23 Barela – Catalina Classic Memorial Statue 27
Barnes – Leadership MB Community Mural 31
Berry – Untitled (Utility Box # 5) 34
Betouliere – Abstract Water Works 37
Billings – Untitled (Utility Box #11) 41
Brantley – Untitled (Utility Box #1) 44
Bridges – Break the Silence 47
Bridges – Untitled (Live Oak Hall) 50
Bridges – Midnight Blues 53
CK Architecture – Strand Bench: K.L. Hunter 56
CK Architecture – Strand Bench: S. Pestano 59
Dukes – Strand Bench: A. D. Adden 63
Dukes – Strand Bench: A. Wellman 66
Dukes – Strand Bench: B. Fine 69
Dukes – Strand Bench: B.+B. Haley 72
Dukes – Strand Bench: C. Broderick 75
Dukes – Strand Bench: Charlotte 79
Dukes – Strand Bench: D. Hocking 82
Dukes – Strand Bench: De Lange Syndrome Foundation 85 Dukes – Strand Bench: E. Gavaldon 88
Dukes – Strand Bench: E. Mills 91
Dukes – Strand Bench: F+C Tomlinson 94
Dukes – Strand Bench: G. Crum 97
Dukes – Strand Bench: H.+D. Whilden 100
Dukes – Strand Bench: J. Joiner 104
Dukes – Strand Bench: J.W. Keever 107
Dukes – Strand Bench: L.+L. Johnson 110
Dukes – Strand Bench: L. Zeman 113
Dukes – Strand Bench: M.Mcafee 117
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
3 Dukes – Strand Bench: M. Zisette 120
Dukes – Strand Bench: N. Pearson 123
Dukes – Strand Bench: N. Raguse 126
Dukes – Strand Bench: Nike 129
Dukes – Strand Bench: Public Art Trust 132
Dukes – Strand Bench: S.H. Content 135
Dukes – Strand Bench: S.M. Ellis 137
Dukes – Strand Bench: T. Mueller 140
Dukes – Strand Bench: Unknown – 23rd Street 143
Dukes – Strand Bench: Unknown – 39th Street 146
Dukes – Strand Bench: Unknown – 44th Street 149
Dukes – Strand Bench: Wilkens 152
Escopete – Untitled (Utility Box #4) 155
Garel – Butterfly Mural 158
Gould – Untitled (Utility Box #6) 161
Harries + Heder – Light Gate 164
Hertz – DuBose Sculpture Bench 167
Hertz – Escobar Sculpture Bench 170
Keifer – Untitled (Utility Box #9) 174
KidWiseMan – California Dayz 177
Kraber – Remember When… 180
Lara – Metlox Murals 183
Lazzari + Evans – Egrets Take Flight 186
Medrano – “Freedom Grove” Veteran’s Memorial Monument 190 Meyer – Untitled (Utility Box #10) 193
Mikus – Martin Ganz Memorial 196
Montegue – What Lifts You 200
Narduli – Kiln 203
Narduli – Metlox Sand Dune Garden 207
Oatman – Mariposa Pathway 211
Ouwerkerk – The Wave of the Future 216
Petroczy – Untitled (Utility Box #3) 219
Randall – A Dragon’s Tale 222
Roach – Mankind’s Struggle for Eternal Peace 226
Salas – Beyond This Point Lies The Rest of the World 230 Schultz – Seeds of Knowledge 234
Skolarus – Untitled (Utility Box #7) 237
Sprano + Mooney Architecture, Inc. – Strand Bench: J.+ H. Mgrdichian 240 Stitt – Untitled (Utility Box #2) 243
Stone – Oasis of the Fossil Dunes 246
Sweeney – How Soon Hath Time The Subtle Thief Of Youth... 249 Tolkin & Associates – Metlox Cubist Dog 253
Tzanetopoulos – Cultural Wave 257
Tzanetopoulos – Permanent Wave 261
Unknown – Geometric Fountains 264
Unknown – Marine Park Memorial Fountain 267
Unknown – Strand Bench: Salem Sculpture Bench 271
Unknown – Sand Dune Foot 274
Van Hammersveld – Corbu Frieze 277
Whitten – Untitled (for Jack) 280
Yanofsky, Oliker, & Brush (Studio 9 One 2) – 9-11-01 Memorial 283 RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
4 1. INTRODUCTION AND METHODOLOGY
The following report contains the results of a sculpture conservation survey conducted in November 2023 and May 2024 for the City of Manhattan Beach ’s Civic Arts Program (hereafter referred to as the City). The purpose of the survey was to examine eighty-two (82) distinct works of art located around the City of Manhattan Beach.
The purpose of this survey was to perform an assessment of each artwork under the City’s care (artworks selected by the City) , determine the current condition of the artworks, and identify damaging factors that may be contributing to the art work’s deterioration. Where applicable, general cost ranges for treatment were calculated to provide an estimate of the scope of funding that would be required to achieve a baseline, stable state for every artwork.
Treatment costs include treatment time, materials, equipment, mobilization time, and administrative time. Costs do not include an y special permits, traffic control, plumbing, electrical, and/or structural engineering. Where those may be applicable, RLA has noted so in the individual survey report. Chief Conservator Christina Varvi and Assistant Conservator Damiana Yousef carried out the survey. All works were viewed from ground level with the aid of binoculars and zoom camera lenses, where necessary. Ms. Varvi reviewed all reports prepared and approved costs, treatment methodologies, and priority designations.
The primary responsibility for care and maintenance of the collection falls under the auspices of the City’s Cultural Arts Department. The artworks in the collection that were surveyed include medium-to-large sized outdoor sculpture, fountains, murals, seating elements, and infrastructure enhancements (e.g., utility box wraps). The most highly represented materials are glass fiber reinforced plastic/resin, painted murals, vinyl, mild steel, painted metal, and concrete. Other materials include glass, bronze, stainless steel, glazed and unglazed ceramic, weathering steel, and stone.
Many of the outdoor installations, like the Duke benches and Metlox Cubist Dog (Tolkin & Associates), receive high public interaction, with pedestrians frequently sitting and climbing on the artworks. The majority of the collection is also located within less than a mile of the ocean, exposing them to high concentrat ions of ambient salts/ chlorides. These present challenges for long-term care and maintenance that are addressed in the individual reports.
A full examination of each piece/installation, together with condition reports and treatment recommendations are included in Section I V of this report. Comments on location, siting and other environmental factors were included for each object. Recommendations and cost estimates for maintenance are included in the individual survey reports. Overall, the collection is relatively stable and generally in relatively good condition despite deferred maintenance.
Digital photographs were taken for each artwork examined. To access a Dropbox folder of all survey images, please copy and paste the following link into your browser:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/f4t96ec6s25nag8vnfxu8/ALuK6CJSmqq1xTwpr4wCUMU? rlkey=ztp7xchi8vtqbis08557e25rb&st=lb1tft88&dl=0
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
5 Priorities: RLA has prioritized the artworks in terms of their current state of conservation.
RLA has not taken into account the City of Manhattan Beach ’s curatorial priorities into consideration in this ranking. The criteria for the conservation rating system are outlined below in Section 3 of the Summary, along with a breakdown of how the full collection falls within the three priority categories. The artworks identified as most in need of conservation/intervention are as follows (in order of most in need):
1.) Mankind’s Struggle for Eternal Peace (Roach) $ 16,350.00 + art handling costs
2.) Beyond this Point Lies the Rest of the World
(Salas)
$ 25,350.00 + general contractor costs
An artwork’s treatment cost was calculated based on the estimated hourly rate of labor for an RLA conservator and a technician(s) in 2024. Materials and equipment costs (e.g., scissor lifts, baker scaffolds, ladders, etc.) are also included in the estimate range, where applicable.
Please note that these costs do not include costs for parking permits, restricted access permits, structural engineers, plumb ers, electricians, general contractors, or art handling/storage services as these are variable and city/company dependent. The City should expect the costs of treatment and maintenance to increase by approximately 3%- 5% every year to take annual inflation and corresponding fee increases into account.
In being top priority pieces, the above artworks represent the most pressing conservation treatments because of observed material instability and aesthetically distracting damage .
RLA commends the City for taking this step towards repair of their collection and recommends allotting funding for maintenance as part of the overall treatment of the entire collection. Regular maintenance of the collection helps aid in preventing the need for future, more remedial work.
2. GENERAL OBSERVATIONS ON COLLECTIONS
The care of the City of Manhattan Beach’s artworks requires a proactive and ongoing policy to make sure they are maintained for future generations. For the City’s size and population, the collection is quite large. The following are general observations pertaining to the overall condition and care that were noted during the survey:
• Almost all of the artworks in the collection require some form of maintenance or conservation to repair damage. Treatment can be as simple as surface cleaning and wax application, and as complex as re-painting.
• There are five (5) artworks that are substantially damaged to the point where we do not recommend treatment/repair. Based on their physical condition alone, we recommend that the following artworks be deaccessioned:
• Brantley – Untitled (Utility Box #1)
• Dukes – Strand Bench: J.W. Keever
• Dukes – Strand Bench: M.Mcafee
• Dukes – Strand Bench: S.H. Content
• Keifer – Untitled (Utility Box #9
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
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6 o If the City desires, they could be re-fabricated, some with more robust materials.
If works are re-fabricated, we recommend a pre -fabrication review of materials and fabrication methodology to ensure that new artworks have the best chance of success when installed in the public realm.
• With the exception of one vinyl mural, all of the artworks surveyed are outdoors. The majority of them are in high -traffic pedestrian areas and are easily or somewhat accessible to the public. Even with signage and some deterrent planting or fencing, people still routinely climb upon certain pieces. Adding security cameras (whether functional or just for display) as well as adding signage indicating that the sculptures are under surveillance may help further deter people from climbing or touching them. If certain sculptures are considered or designated as “climbing” sculptures, the City should consider increasing the frequency of maintenance on these works to account for high levels of public interaction.
• A large contributing factor to surface damage at multiple sculptures appears to be the presence of sprinklers within close proximity to artworks and these works routinely being hit with sprinkler overspray. Routine wetting can promote corrosion of various metals, promote micro biological growths, and deposit hard water minerals on the surface that etch coatings over time. This is true for paint, lacquer, porous and non-porous surfaces, and/or wax. Where possible, sprinkler heads should be directed away from sculptures.
Ideally, drip irrigation would be used within close proximity to the sculptures where watering is required.
• All but one of the works surveyed are located outdoors in an urban environment and close to the ocean. Therefore, the artworks are exposed to high levels of corrosive atmospheric pollution and exhaust particles, ambient corrosive salts/chlori des, as well as environmental factors such as wind, rain, and temperature extremes. The corrosive nature of the City’s environment necessitates a routine maintenance plan to mitigate deleterious conditions a s well as catch and treat issues before they become more pervasive and more time consuming/expensive to fix down the road. Material selection for future acquisitions and commissions will also be key. Pre-fabrication and acquisition reviews would be beneficial for ensuring the longevity of future City-owned artworks.
3. RATING SYSTEM
In order to assess priorities, each artwork was assigned a numerical designation based upon its state of conservation. The priorities were based on a combination of factors having to do with materials, condition, siting, and the ability to safeguard the artwork using factors such as maintenance. The priority ratings range from 1 to 3, with 1 being the pieces in most dire need of conservation, and 3 being pieces that presently require minimal treatment.
Specifically, the ratings should be interpreted in the following manner:
• Priority 1 objects exhibit structural instability that could result in imminent, irreversible damage to either the piece itself or to the public. Pieces with severe surface issues— delamination, active surface loss, self -perpetuating corrosion— are also included in this category. It is recommended that treatment on these works be carried out as soon as possible . If the condition is too pervasive, the City should consider deaccessioning the artwork.
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
7 • Priority 2 objects are not in imminent danger ; however, the artworks exhibit condition issues that exhibit normal wear and tear from the elements that results in corrosion, breakage, loss, abrasion, or paint loss. If maintenance is continued, treatment could be carried out within 2-4 years.
• Priority 3 objects require minor treatment, such as cleaning, minor corrosion removal, coating application, and/or fungal removal, but lacking urgency. If maintenance is continued, treatment can be carried out within 3-5 years.
Based on this priority breakdown the collection can be said to be in good to fair condition overall. The majority of the collection (67% or 54 artworks) are in relatively good condition and largely require routine maintenance or somewhat minor surface interventions. Roughly 2% of the works (2 artworks) require attention within 1-2 years . Another 25% of the collection (20 artworks) requires attention within 2-4 years. Six percent (6% or 5 artworks) would require so much intervention that we feel it would be prudent to de accession them and possibly have them re-fabricated if the City so desired. Priority 1 and Priority 2 artworks constitute 33% of the total collection. It is our opinion that environmental and siting factors are generally the problem with Priority 1 artworks and that once the collection is brought up to a good state of conservation it will be possible to keep them more stable with regular, ongoing care/maintenance.
The following is the breakdown of the artworks examined by conservation priority.
4. PRIORITY RATING & CONSERVATION COST ESTIMATES
Priority 1 = 7 artworks
1.) Mankind’s Struggle for Eternal Peace (Roach) $ 16,350.00 + art handling costs
2.) Beyond this Point Lies the Rest of the World (Salas) $ 25,350.00 + general contractor costs
3.) Untitled – Utility Box #1 (Brantley) N/A - Deaccession
4.) Strand Bench: J.W. Keever (Dukes) N/A - Deaccession
5.) Strand Bench: M. Mcafee (Dukes) N/A - Deaccession
6.) Strand Bench: S.H. Condent (Dukes) N/A - Deaccession
7.) Untitled – Utility Box #9 (Keifer) N/A - Deaccession
SUBTOTAL FOR PRIORITY 1 ARTWORKS $ 41,700.00 + miscellaneous subcontractor costs
Priority 2 = 20 artworks
1.) Strand Bench: Luke Erin Gilroy (Ball-Nogues) $ 13,225.00 + art handling costs
2.) Catalina Classic Memorial Statue (Barela) $ 35,100.00
3.) Abstract Water Works (Betouliere) $ 38,150.00
4.) Strand Bench: C. Broderick (Dukes) $ 17,230.00
5.) Strand Bench: H.+D. Whilden (Dukes) $ 12,775.00
6.) Strand Bench: Wilkens (Dukes) $ 10,175.00
7.) DuBose Sculpture Bench (Hertz) $ 19,575.00
8.) Escobar Sculpture Bench (Hertz) $ 23,875.00
9.) California Dayz (KidWiseMan) $ 20,325.00
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8 10.) Remember When… (Kraber) $ 11,765.00
11.) Egrets Take Flight (Lazzari + Evans) $ 14,900.00
12.) Martin Ganz Memorial (Mikus) $ 19,175.00
13.) What Lifts You (Montegue) $ 15,835.00
14.) Kiln (Narduli) $ 24,300.00
15.) A Dragon’s Tale (Randall) $ 32,525.00 + art handling costs
16.) Oasis of the Fossil Dunes (Stone) $ 8,925.00
17.) How Soon Hath Time… (Sweeney) $ 19,200.00 + art handling & electrician
18.) Cultural Wave (Tzanetopoulos) $ 83,800.00
19.) Untitled (For Jack) (Whitten) $ 13,600.00 + traffic control & permits
20.) 9-11-01 Memorial (Yanofsky, Oliker, & Brush
(Studio 9 One 2))
$ 14,225.00
SUBTOTAL FOR PRIORITY 2 ARTWORKS $ 448,680.00 + Miscellaneous subcontractor costs & City fees
Priority 3 = 55 artworks
1.) Untitled - Utility Box #8 (Amell) $ 2,510.00
2.) Leadership MB Community Mural (Barnes) $ 26,135.00
3.) Untitled - Utility Box #5 (Berry) $ 4,000.00 + traffic control & permits
4.) Untitled - Utility Box #11 (Billings) $ 5,875.00 + traffic control & permits
5.) Break the Silence (Bridges) $ 11,700.00
6.) Untitled (Live Oak Hall) (Bridges) $ 3,515.00
7.) Midnight Blues (Bridges) $ 13,450.00
8.) Strand Bench: K.L. Hunter (CK Architecture) $ 16,900.00
9.) Strand Bench: S. Pestano (CK Architecture) $ 16,900.00
10.) Strand Bench: A. D. Adden (Dukes) $ 2,000.00
11.) Strand Bench: A. Wellman (Dukes) $ 10,625.00
12.) Strand Bench: B. Fine (Dukes) $ 10,175.00
13.) Strand Bench: B.+B. Haley (Dukes) $ 12,775.00
14.) Strand Bench: Charlotte (Dukes) $ 12,775.00
15.) Strand Bench: D. Hocking (Dukes) $ 10,175.00
16.) Strand Bench: De Lange Syndrome Foundation
(Dukes)
$ 9,350.00
17.) Strand Bench: E. Gavaldon (Dukes) $ 7,050.00
18.) Strand Bench: E. Mills (Dukes) $ 9,350.00
19.) Strand Bench: F+C Tomlinson (Dukes) $ 9,350.00
20.) Strand Bench: G. Crum (Dukes) $ 12,775.00
21.) Strand Bench: J. Joiner (Dukes) $ 8,275.00
22.) Strand Bench: L.+L. Johnson (Dukes) $ 12,775.00
23.) Strand Bench: L. Zeman (Dukes) $ 12,775.00
24.) Strand Bench: M. Zisette (Dukes) $ 10,175.00
25.) Strand Bench: N. Pearson (Dukes) $ 12,775.00
26.) Strand Bench: N. Raguse (Dukes) $ 10,175.00
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9 27.) Strand Bench: Nike (Dukes) $ 12,775.00
28.) Strand Bench: Public Art Trust (Dukes) $ 7,275.00
29.) Strand Bench: S.M. Ellis (Dukes) $ 4,925.00
30.) Strand Bench: T. Mueller (Dukes) $ 8,275.00
31.) Strand Bench: Unknown – 23rd Street (Dukes) $ 4,925.00
32.) Strand Bench: Unknown – 39th Street (Dukes) $ 7,275.00
33.) Strand Bench: Unknown – 44th Street (Dukes) $ 7,275.00
34.) Untitled - Utility Box #4 (Escopete) $ 2,830.00 + traffic control & permits
35.) Butterfly Mural (Garel) $ 26,300.00
36.) Untitled - Utility Box #6 (Gould) $ 2,730.00 + traffic control & permits
37.) Light Gate (Harries + Heder) $ 11,700.00
38.) Metlox Murals (Lara) $ 47,950.00
39.) “Freedom Grove” Veteran’s Memorial Monument
(Medrano)
$ 21,375.00
40.) Untitled - Utility Box #10 (Meyer) $ 2,830.00 + traffic control & permits
41.) Metlox Sand Dune Garden (Narduli) $ 19,250.00
42.) Mariposa Pathway (Oatman) $ 17,575.00 + art handlers
43.) The Wave of the Future (Ouwerkerk) $ 7,200.00
44.) Untitled - Utility Box #3 (Petroczy) $ 2,730.00
45.) Seeds of Knowledge (Schultz) $ 7,400.00
46.) Untitled - Utility Box #7 (Skolarus) $ 2,730.00 + traffic control & permits
47.) Strand Bench: J.+ H. Mgrdichian
(Sprano + Mooney Architecture, Inc.)
$ 10,875.00
48.) Untitled - Utility Box #2 (Stitt) $ 2,730.00 + traffic control & permits
49.) Metlox Cubist Dog (Tolkin & Associates) $ 24,375.00
50.) Permanent Wave (Tzanetopoulos) $ 9,000.00
51.) Geometric Fountains (Unknown) $ 21,400.00 + electrical & plumbing
52.) Marine Park Memorial Fountain (Unknown) $ 16,950.00 + electrical & plumbing
53.) Strand Bench: Salem Sculpture Bench
(Unknown)
$ 5,300.00 + art handlers
54.) Sand Dune Foot (Unknown) $ 7,145.00 + re-grading
55.) Corbu Frieze (Van Hammersveld) N/A – Recently Treated
SUBTOTAL FOR PRIORITY 3 ARTWORKS = $ 597,435.00 + Miscellaneous subcontractor costs & City fees
TOTAL ESTIMATED COST OF
COLLECTION TREATMENT:
$1,087,815.00 + Miscellaneous
subcontractor costs & City fees
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
10 5. RECOMMENDATIONS:
The following are overall recommendations for the collection:
• Carry out treatment on as many of the Priority 1 artworks as possible. Begin with works that have already been identified as needing treatment and continue with the list until completed.
• Where possible, re-direct sprinkler heads away from the artworks to mitigate them getting inadvertently hit with overspray. Ideally watering around artworks should be via drip irrigation or hand watering in order to minimize routine wetting of artwork surfaces and deposition of disfiguring mineral deposits.
• Increase a security presence around the artworks, especially in areas with low lighting.
This can include installing additional lighting and dummy (non- functional) security cameras in the area to deter vandalism and people climbing on the artworks. • Establish a regular maintenance program for the works included in the survey. A detailed recommendation for each artwork is included in their individual survey forms included in this report. A summary of maintenance protocol and schedules is included in this report as well.
• Create a digital database organizing all of the City’s accessioned artworks with artwork information, location, cost for maintenance, maintenance schedule, and value. This will allow the City to maintain a regular maintenance schedule as well as determine need and cost for repair.
• Establish a systematic approach for documenting and redressing damage or vandalism.
If possible, vandalism should be mitigated as soon as possible to discourage the public from continuing to vandalize the artworks.
• Establish a system of vetting new works using the most up to date Design -Phase conservation review. Such a review would provide analyses of materials and techniques proposed for fabrication of new works and make recommendations for siting and maintenance. The review will also allow the City to properly plan for costs associated with future maintenance. Sample forms for new commissions are included in Section III of this report.
6. CONCLUSIONS:
Based on our examination, it appears as though UV, moderate to heavy public interaction, and exposure ambient salts/chlorides have all contributed to the various degrees of deterioration observed within the public art collection. All of the artworks in the collection are in need of some form of conservation treatment in order to bring the collection to a condition level that can be maintained with regular cleanings and care. Outdoor artworks will continue to require the most recurring and frequent maintenances due to the deleterious effects of the elements as well as the impact that corrosive materials have on the various material surfaces. RLA recommends instituting a maintenance program that addresses the work on an ongoing basis and requiring that future commissions include funds for artwork maintenance.
Submitted by:
Christina Varvi, President & Chief Conservator
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
11 II. MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS & SCHEDULE
Generally, artworks classified as either Priority 2 or Priority 3 can receive routine maintenance prior to more in -depth conservation treatments. P riority 2 objects are not in imminent danger; however, the art may have condition issues that exhibit normal wear and tear from the elements that results in corrosion, breakage, loss, abrasion, or paint loss. If maintenance is continued, treatment could be carried out within 2-4 years. Priority 3 objects require minor treatment, such as cleaning, minor corrosion removal, coating application, and/or fungal removal, but lacking urgency. If maintenance is continued, treatment (if warranted) can be carried out within 3-4 years.
Many pieces will not require annual maintenance. Large -scale installations with complex access issues may limit the frequency in which a piece is maintained. Within each individual condition assessment, RLA has indicated whether the City should aim to maintain the artwork annually, biennially, every 2-3 years, every 3-5 years, or on an as -needed basis. A few pieces that we recommend for deaccessioning should not be maintained as it would be futile and a waste of resources/funds. Maintenance instructions have also been included in each individual report, with the expectation that trained conservation professionals will be carrying out maintenances.
Below is a list of all of the artworks included within the survey, their recommended maintenance frequency, and the expected cost of maintenance should it be performed by a conservation professional. The proposed costs include the cost of materials. Where required, additional access needs are indicated and will incur additional costs that are included (e.g., scaffolding installation, scissor lift rental). They do not include any special permits, overnight or weekend work differentials, etc. The City of Manhattan Beach should expect the costs of maintenance to increase annually by at least 3% to take inflation into account. Aside from their general priority groups and recommended frequency, the artworks are not further prioritized within these groups.
Annual:
Priority 1: 1 artwork
1.) Mind’s Struggle for Eternal Peace (Roach) $ 1,650.00
Priority 2: 9 artworks
1.) Strand Bench: Luke Erin Gilroy (Ball-Nogues Studio) $ 780.00
2.) Catalina Classic Memorial Statue (Barela) $ 5,500.00
3.) Abstract Water Works (Betouliere) $ 6,900.00
4.) Remember When… (Kraber) $ 3,325.00
5.) Egrets Take Flight (Lazzari + Evans) $ 1,800.00
6.) Martin Ganz Memorial (Mikus) $ 2,725.00
7.) A Dragon’s Tale (Randall) $ 2,725.00
8.) Oasis of the Fossil Dunes (Stone) $ 1,250.00
9.) How Soon Hath Time… (Sweeney) $ 3,225.00
Priority 3: 6 artworks
1.) Light Gate (Harries + Heder) $ 3,000.00
2.) Mariposa Pathway (Oatman) $ 4,575.00
3.) The Wave of the Future (Ouwerkerk) $ 925.00
4.) Seeds of Knowledge (Schultz) $ 2,785.00
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12 5.) Metlox Cubist Dog (Tolkin & Associates) $ 1,250.00
6.) Sand Dune Foot (Unknown) $ 1,290.00
Sub-Total – Annual: $ 43,705.00
Biennial:
Priority 1: 2 artworks
1.) Untitled – Utility Box #1 (Brantley) $ 910.00 + traffic control & permits
2.) Untitled – Utility Box #9 (Keifer) $ 910.00 + traffic control & permits
Priority 2: 5 artworks
1.) Strand Bench: C. Broderick (Dukes) $ 880.00
2.) Strand Bench: H.+D. Whilden (Dukes) $ 880.00
3.) Strand Bench: Wilkens (Dukes) $ 880.00
4.) DuBose Sculpture Bench (Hertz) $ 1,625.00
5.) Escobar Sculpture Bench (Hertz) $ 1,625.00
Priority 3: 37 artworks
1.) Untitled – Utility Box #8 (Amell) $ 910.00
2.) Untitled – Utility Box #5 (Berry) $ 910.00 + traffic control & permits
3.) Untitled – Utility Box #11 (Billings) $ 910.00 + traffic control & permits
4.) Strand Bench: K.L. Hunter (CK Architecture) $ 1,050.00
5.) Strand Bench: S. Pestano (CK Architecture) $ 1,050.00
6.) Strand Bench: A. D. Adden (Dukes) $ 880.00
7.) Strand Bench: A. Wellman (Dukes) $ 880.00
8.) Strand Bench: B. Fine (Dukes) $ 880.00
9.) Strand Bench: B.+B. Haley (Dukes) $ 880.00
10.) Strand Bench: Charlotte (Dukes) $ 880.00
11.) Strand Bench: D. Hocking (Dukes)
12.) Strand Bench: De Lange Syndrome Foundation (Dukes) $ 880.00
$ 880.00
13.) Strand Bench: E. Gavaldon (Dukes) $ 880.00
14.) Strand Bench: E. Mills (Dukes) $ 880.00
15.) Strand Bench: F+C Tomlinson (Dukes) $ 880.00
16.) Strand Bench: G. Crum (Dukes) $ 880.00
17.) Strand Bench: J. Joiner (Dukes) $ 880.00
18.) Strand Bench: L.+L. Johnson (Dukes) $ 880.00
19.) Strand Bench: L. Zeman (Dukes) $ 880.00
20.) Strand Bench: M. Zisette (Dukes) $ 880.00
21.) Strand Bench: N. Pearson (Dukes) $ 880.00
22.) Strand Bench: N. Raguse (Dukes) $ 880.00
23.) Strand Bench: Nike (Dukes) $ 880.00
24.) Strand Bench: Public Art Trust (Dukes) $ 880.00
25.) Strand Bench: S.M. Ellis (Dukes) $ 880.00
26.) Strand Bench: T. Mueller (Dukes) $ 880.00
27.) Strand Bench: Unknown – 23rd Street (Dukes) $ 880.00
28.) Strand Bench: Unknown – 39th Street (Dukes) $ 880.00
29.) Strand Bench: Unknown – 44th Street (Dukes) $ 880.00
30.) Untitled – Utility Box #4 (Escopete) $ 910.00 + traffic control & permits
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
13 31.) Untitled – Utility Box #6 (Gould) $ 910.00 + traffic control & permits
32.) Untitled – Utility Box #10 (Meyer) $ 910.00
33.) Untitled – Utility Box #3 (Petroczy) $ 910.00
34.) Untitled – Utility Box #7 (Skolarus) $ 910.00 + traffic control & permits
35.) Strand Bench: J.+ H. Mgrdichian (Sprano + Mooney Architecture) $ 1,250.00
36.) Untitled – Utility Box #2 (Stitt) $ 910.00 + traffic control & permits
37.) Strand Bench: Salem Sculpture Bench (Unknown) $ 780.00
Sub-Total – Biennial: $ 41,150.00 + traffic control & permits
Every 2-3 Years:
Priority 2: 1 artwork
1.) 9-11-01 Memorial (Yanofsky, Oliker, Brush (Studio 9 One 2)) $ 2,925.00
Priority 3: 4 artworks
1.) “Freedom Grove” Veteran’s Memorial Monument (Medrano) $ 6,400.00
2.) Metlox Sand Dune Garden (Narduli) $ 7,150.00
3.) Permanent Wave (Tzanetopoulos) $ 2,200.00
4.) Marine Park Memorial Fountain (Unknown) $ 1,575.00
Sub-Total – Every 2-3 Years: $ 20,250.00
Every 3-5 Years:
Priority 2: 1 artwork
1.) Beyond This Point Lies The Rest of the World (Salas) $ 8,975.00
Priority 2: 3 artworks
1.) California Dayz (KidWiseMan) $ 2,950.00
2.) What Lifts You (Montegue) $ 2,950.00
3.) Kiln (Narduli) $ 7,150.00
Priority 3: 9 artworks
1.) Leadership MB Community Mural (Barnes) $ 6,425.00
2.) Break the Silence (Bridges) $ 3,700.00
3.) Untitled (Live Oak Hall) (Bridges) $ 1,370.00
4.) Midnight Blues (Bridges) $ 6,245.00
5.) Butterfly Mural (Garel) $ 5,225.00
6.) Metlox Murals (Lara) $ 11,650.00
7.) Geometric Fountains (Unknown) $ 2,225.00
8.) Corbu Frieze (Van Hammersveld) $ 7,200.00
9.) Untitled (for Jack) (Whitten) $ 2,700.00 + traffic control & permits
Sub-Total – Every 3-5 Years $ 68,765.00 + traffic control & permits
As Needed:
Priority 2: 1 artwork
1.) Cultural Wave (Tzanetopoulos) $ 23,250.00
Sub-Total –As Needed: $ 23,250.00
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
14 III. SAMPLE FORMS
IN-HOUSE SCULPTURE MAINTENANCE AND EXAMINATION FORM
Date: ----------------------------------- Sculpture: ------------------------------
Location: --------------------------------
Yes No check
1. Coating issues?
2. Bird droppings?
3. Graffiti?
If so, describe (material, color and placement)
4. Gum and other accretions:
5. Does it appear securely mounted?
6. Pooling water or other noticeable problems:
WORK CARRIED OUT: [list materials used and methods.]
Signature of technician:
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
15 Methods and Materials Conservation Review Sheet for New Commissions
Artist Name: _____________________________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________ City, State ZIP:____________________________________________________ E-mail address:____________________________________________________ Phone #: ( )______________________ Fax #: ( )__________________
Date Completed: _________________
1. Commissioning Agency
What department is commissioning the artwork? Please list the name, address and phone number for the primary contact person.
2. General Description of Artwork
What is the title for the artwork?
What are the dimensions for the artwork?
What is the weight of the artwork?
Describe placement of the artwork, it's environment and public use. Be specific about location vis-à-vis trees, public access, proximity to streets, water, etc.
3. Fabrication
What materials are used for fabrication of artwork? Please be as specific as possible. List types of paint, stone, metal, plastic, tile, mortars and adhesives you may be using in the creation of the work. Include the materials for the sub-structure and the surface of the work.
Who is the proposed fabricator for artwork? Please provide all relevant contact information. Specify each fabricator of each component part.
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
16 Suppliers:
Coatings:
Who is fabricating and supplying the electrical and/or lighting components?
Explain in detail the proposed fabrication methods.
What is the fabricator warranty?
Who will prepare shop drawings?
4. Installation
Explain proposed installation method. Be specific as possible about all materials, including adhesives and mortars.
Please indicate any aspect of installation that may require special attention (For example, a consideration of protection of the artwork to prevent portions that could scratch or coatings that could peel if not properly handled.)
Have you completed a project of this type before? If so, where and when was it installed? Please list name and contact information for Owner. Indicate any aspect of the installation involves using new materials.
5. Maintenance
Artist maintenance recommendations? Please make a general statement, given your experience with this material, about your sense of how this piece is expected to weather.
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
17 CONDITION REPORT
Object Type:
Sculpture_________ Painting_______ Works on Paper__________ Electronic Media
Date of Examination:
Artist Name:
Title/Date:
Object description:
Materials:
Location:
Comments on Location:
Comments on Mount/Frame:
General Condition Notes:
Summary and Treatment Recommendations:
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024
18 ART DAMAGE REPORT
Date and time of examination: _________________________________________
Relative date and time of damage: ______________________________________
Artwork: __________________________________________________________
CAUSE: [vandalism, accident, storm, other]:______________________________
Description of Damage-type, location, perceived severity:
Additional Comments:
Number of photographs taken:
Recommended follow-up:
Signed: ________________________________________
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH
PUBLIC ART COLLECTION SURVEY
RLA Conservation, LLC • June 2024 19
IV. INDIVIDUAL SURVEY REPORTS
CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY
RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/10/2023
Artist: Amelia Amell
Title: Untitled – Utility Box #8
Date: 2020/2021
Materials: Vinyl wrap print
Dimensions: 33” W x 24” D x 65” H
Location: Manhattan Beach Blvd. & Highland Ave. – SE Corner General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The artwork comprises a printed vinyl wrap mounted to a utility box situated between the sidewalk and roadway along a busy road. The printed imagery portrays a half-digitized, half- painted stylized beach sunset scene. On the east side of the box, two (2) girls are depicted holding surfboards, walking away, with a circular Manhattan Beach logo placed above them.
The west side features a similar depiction, but with one (1) girl holding a surfboard instead of two (2). On the south side, there is an image of a girl under an umbrella in the same digitized form, and on the north side, three (3) male figures with surfboards exhibit a more realistic appearance while maintaining a pixelated effect.
Condition:
In general, the applied vinyl is in relatively good condition. The south side that faces the sidewalk exhibits multiple areas of abrasion and minor surfaces losses due to impact or gouges in the vinyl surface. The vinyl around a rectangular panel near the top of the box has been crudely cut through around the perimeter of this panel and at what presumably is a keyhole. There are multiple areas of sticker adhesive residue that has become very soiled and is prominent on the surface. The top/horizontal surfaces are heavily soiled with vehicle exhaust particulates, dust, and bird droppings. Additional bird droppings and other accretions are visible throughout the other vertical surfaces.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: None at this time 20 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Comments on Mounting:
The vinyl wrap is presumably adhered with an adhesive on the verso as well as the application of heat during installation. It is unknown what type of surface preparation (if any) was performed on the utility box before application.
Comments on Location:
The box is located at the southeast corner of Manhattan Beach Blvd. and Highland Ave., a very busy intersection. It is highly accessible to vehicle traffic, which results in higher concentrations of corrosive vehicle exhaust particulates on the surface. It is also highly accessible to the public as it immediately borders the sidewalk and shows signs of damage due to public interaction. There is ambient light from nearby streetlamps in the evening.
There are currently no overhanging tree branches or plantings in the planter area immediately to the north encroaching upon the artwork. However, there is a large tree nearby that could eventually grow to extend over the utility box. A sprinkler head was noted in the planter bed to the north, about a foot away from the utility box. The east facing and top horizontal surfaces are the most exposed to prolong to UV light and exhibit t he most color and gloss loss and deterioration.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Because the box is immediately adjacent to the sidewalk, any work done in situ would need to be performed in conjunction with stanchions and caution tape to cordon off the work area from the public. Adequate sidewalk space must be left for ADA compliance.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose or from a Hudson Sprayer if no hose bib or quick coupler valve is nearby.
3. Wash surfaces with a solution of filtered tap or distilled water and a conservation grade detergent using microfiber cloths to remove atmospheric soiling. a. Rinse with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
4. Remove extant accretions, particularly stick residue, with organic solvents that will not adversely impact the vinyl substrate.
5. Remove lifting areas of final wrap at areas of abrasion damage down to sound material.
6. Though the vinyl cannot be repaired in-kind in the field, we recommend applying something at the edges and areas of loss to secure the wrap so that it does not continue to peel in these areas as well as visually re-integrate the color loss. a. In paint areas of vinyl wrap loss with an exterior grade conservation paint system.
21 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
b. Apply conservation grade varnish over in painting that has inherent UV light stabilizers.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 2,510.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required: None at this time.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose or from a Hudson Sprayer if no hose bib or quick coupler valve is nearby.
3. Wash surfaces with a solution of filtered tap or distilled water and a conservation grade detergent using microfiber cloths to remove atmospheric soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Remove extant accretions, particularly stick residue, with organic solvents that will not adversely impact the vinyl substrate.
6. Visually inspect surfaces for signs of additional damage and notify the City accordingly.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 910.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennial
22 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Ball-Nogues Studio
Title: Untitled (Donated by the family of Luke Erin Gilroy) Date: 2019
Materials: Fiberglass, possible metal internal armature, paint, resin/clear coat Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 45th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench made of painted fiberglass with a thick clear gel coat on top.
The bench has an arc form with a convex surface. The color scheme features an overall transition from black to blue and then to white, creating a smooth ombre effect. The ombre starts on the top surface, gradually darkening as it extends toward the outer edge. Once the black reaches the outer edge and curves down to the legs, the ombre transitions to blue and then white where the feet meet the concrete. On the east-facing edge, there are nine metal bolts strategically placed to deter skateboarding. A small bronze dedication plaque is embedded directly into the concrete pavement nearby.
Condition:
While the bench appears to be structurally stable, the surface c ondition is fair. It exhibits a multitude of large and small scratches across both the edges and the top surface. The scratches are predominantly concentrated on the east side edge, where the skateboard deterrents are located. It appears that these scratches were likely present before the deterrents were installed. Many of the scratches extend down to the fiberglass substrate, but there is no sign of cracks or losses to the substrate. Additionally, there are numerous minor scratches and scuffs on the top surface, accompanied by some accumulated dirt. Notably, there is one large white scratch on the west side of the top surface, starting from the north end and extending a little past the middle. In addition to scratches, there are areas of coating loss measuring as large as one inch (1”) in diameter that also extend down to the fiberglass substrate. While also mainly concentrated along the edge, some do extend into the ombre areas. The round metal plate mounting the bench to the pavement is exhibiting localized areas of corrosion, as is the mounting hardware. The underside of the bench exhibits drip patterns or marks, likely a result of the piece being wet from rain or manual rinsing, leaving behind dirt runoff traces. There does not appear to be any protective coating on the bronze 23 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
dedication plaque. The raised text and border exhibit both blue green and red cuprite corrosion. They are meant to be polished and golden in color.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition:
It is likely that the skateboard deterrents were added after the artwork’s original fabrication and installation. No other interventions are known.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is a round metal plate bolted with four bolts, one on each leg. It is not clear how the “legs” of the bench are secured to this plate, though they are likely welded to some type of metal armature that extends up into the body of the bench. The anchoring bolts may also be set with epoxy. This should be verified with the artist’s studio/installer.
Comments on Location:
The bench is situated along The Strand, a pedestrian walkway between residential areas and the beach. To the west, there is a planter with low-trimmed plants that descend towards a parking lot. The artwork seems to be shaded in the early mornings, cast by a house on the east side of the artwork. In the afternoon, it is in fu ll sunlight. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. The location is easily accessible to the public and the surface damage noted throughout the work is directly related to public interaction. There do not appear to be any sprinklers in the nearby planter that overspray the artwork. The work is not spot lit, but there is ambient lighting from a nearby streetlamp. It is unknown if there are security cameras in the area to help deter vandalism. The work is sited approximately 300’- 400’ from the ocean. As such, it is subjected to ambient salts/chlorides, which p romote corrosion on exposed metal surfaces.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Because the work is located along a relatively high-traffic pedestrian walkway, the work area will need to be cordoned off with stanchions and caution tape for maintenance. It would be beneficial for the bench to be transported off site for treatment due to the harsh environment.
Treatment Priority: 2 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and hi gh-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. If possible, have the bench de-installed and transported to a conservation studio for treatment. Because of the finicky nature of the artwork surface, a very clean environment will be required to re-establish the original desired finish.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose.
5. Wash with a solution of filtered tap water and a conservation-grade detergent. 24 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
6. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
7. Polish surface with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of fine superficial scratches.
8. Mechanically remove any corroded areas found on the mounting plates located on the feet of the bench.
9. In-paint areas of coating loss to blend with adjacent surfaces. a. Note: The treating contractor will likely opt to try and blend areas of paint loss in ombre areas with an airbrush. Because of how the paint was originally applied, in-painting repairs will be visible upon close inspection.
They should blend fairly well from about six feet (6’) away.
10. Apply one or more clear “tie” coats to encapsulate the in-painted areas as well as reunify the surface. If possible, select a product with inherent UV stabilizers. a. Polish clear coat to desired sheen.
11. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial boat or automotive wax coating over the bench resin/clear coat to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering and try to prolong the service life of t he clearcoat.
12. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen. h. Note: The only way to truly preserve a golden patina is to lacquer the bronze surface. However, since the plaque is embedded in the pavement and will be quickly abraded, any lacquer coating will quickly fail. Hot waxing is easier to renew during future maintenances.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 13,225.00 + de-installation, transport, & re-installation Esti
mated Special Equipment Required:
For treatment, the bench should be de-installed and transported off-site. Temporary covers for mounting holes/poles, etc. may be necessary at the current artwork location.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling. 25 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
3. Rinse with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose or Hudson sprayer if no hose bib or quick coupler valve is available.
4. Wash surfaces with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent using microfiber brushes.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
7. Inspect surfaces for new damage and notify the City accordingly.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 780.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Annually
26 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 5/31/2024
Artist: Chris Barela
Title: Catalina Classic Memorial Statue
Date: 2023
Materials: Bronze, lacquer, pigmented concrete
Dimensions: 18’ H x approximately 20’ in diameter
Location: Manhattan Beach Pier, Lower South Parking Lot General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The sculpture consists of a grouping of three (3) life-sized figures in patinated bronze. At the center of the composition, a male figure wearing just board shorts stands with his back against an upright longboard surfboard . His hands reach back gripping either side of the board. To his front proper left is a female figure laying on her stomach on a surfboard, seemingly paddling. She wears a tank top, shorts, and has her hair in a ponytail. To the upright figure’s rear proper right is a young male figure kneeling on a surfboard, also paddling.
He wears a tank top, shorts, and has short hair. The three (3) figures are mounted to a large, elevated cylindrical base fabricated of pigmented concrete where the surface is slightly convex and slopes to the north. The bronze patina is statuary brown for all surfaces with more golden highlights throughout the figures’ skin. There is a matte lacquer coating over all three (3) figures.
Condition:
Overall, the installation appears to be structurally sound, but the surface condition is fair.
Because of its proximity to the ocean, the applied lacquer coating does not appear to have been sufficient for this harsh environment with ambient salts. Swaths as well as drip marks and more concentrated clusters of powdery blue green corrosion are visible on all three figures with larger areas on horizontal/skyward- facing surfaces where salts tend to collect and where protective coatings tend to wear more quickly because of their exposure to UV light. There likely are not enough layers of lacquer on the figures. As such, even areas that do not exhibit corrosion are showing signs of darkening and tarnish due to general weathering and oxidation.
27 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
One can see that the lacquer coating is visibly breaking down in localized areas. This presents as blanching or “silvering” of the coating where it becomes more opaque and one can see small circles or swaths in the surface. These are visible on the figures ’ shoulders, hair, and other skyward-facing surfaces. The coating can break down due to prolonged UV exposure, corrosion, and also abrasion from sand being ground into the surfaces due to wind or people touching/climbing on surfaces.
There is sand on top of the base and among the figures, which may trap moisture against the bronze. There is corrosion runoff staining on the top of the cylindrical base. White efflorescence leaching from the concrete is visible in streaks down the perimeter of the vertical surface of the base, leaving prominent white stains.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not readily evident. Presumably there are threaded stainless steel pins at the underside of each figure that are secured to the concrete base with epoxy. This should be on file with the City in terms of structural engineer drawings/approvals.
Comments on Location:
The installation is located at the south end of the lower pier lot, south of the Manhattan Beach Pier, between The Strand and bicycle path. It is within 100’ -200’ of the ocean and the base set into sand. The work is highly accessible to the public; people can climb onto the base and touch lower surfaces. The accumulation of sand on the base and among figures may be somewhat wind-driven, but also from people climbing onto the base. Being south of the parking lot, it could be subjected to higher concentration s of corrosive vehicle exhaust particulates. There are no encroaching plantings or overhanging tree branches. There are several large palm trees within approximately 15’-20’ of the installation. The work is not spot lit at night, but there may be some ambient light from nearby streetlamps. It is unknown if there are security cameras in the area to help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
To reach the upper surfaces of the central long board element, an articulating boom lift will be required for routine maintenances. The slope and curve of the base means ladders will be unstable. Scaffolding will be more expensive for maintenances. A rough terrain vehicle will be required and plywood boards should be put down onto the sand to help stabilize the equipment.
Treatment Priority: 2 Curatorial Priority:
28 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for ongoing routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fencing with privacy screen around the sculpture. Secure fence with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Erect scaffolding around the sculpture and enclose with windscreen.
4. Wash surfaces to remove general dirt, grime, and sand.
5. Strip existing clear coating to bare metal using organic solvents and paint strippers.
6. Mechanically remove corrosion and passivate with a copper corrosion passivating solution.
a. Allow to dwell overnight and clear with organic solvents the next day.
7. Prepare bronze surfaces and warm with a propane torch. Apply a chemical patina solution to reintegrate areas of patina loss or discoloration. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
8. Immediately before applying the first coat of lacquer, degrease surfaces with ethanol to remove as many atmospheric salts from the metal surfaces as possible.
Apply clear exterior-grade lacquer via HVLP spray.
a. Apply 6-8 coats of lacquer per the manufacturer’s specifications.
9. Allow last coat of lacquer to cure for 72 hours. Wipe down surfaces with distilled water and apply two (2) coats of carnauba-based paste wax to all bronze surfaces. a. After each application dries, buff with a horsehair bristle brush.
10. Clean concrete base with an etching/acidic masonry cleaner to address leaching efflorescence.
a. Rinse until waste water is pH neutral and allow to dry completely.
11. Re-coat base with a potassium silicate mineral paint in a shade of black approved by the City.
12. Please Note: Ideally, the bronzes would be de-installed and transported off site for treatment to mitigate contamination of bronze surfaces with atmospheric salts, which can promote corrosion. However, this would require damaging the base and adds considerable expense to the treatment.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 35,100.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fencing with privacy screen, scaffolding with wind screen, compressor, generator, HVLP spray gun
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography.
2. Utilize an articulating boom lift with plywood boards under tires to reach upper surfaces. Cordon off work site with stanchions and caution tape.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose debris and sand.
4. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water or distilled water from a Hudson sprayer.
5. Wash with a solution of filtered tap or distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
29 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
6. Rinse with distilled water and dry surfaces.
7. If observed, excavate areas of corrosion and locally re-apply lacquer afterwards to seal.
8. Apply two (2) coats of cold, carnauba-based paste wax to all bronze surfaces. a. After each application dries, buff wax with horsehair bristle brush.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 5,500.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Annual
30 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 5/31/2024
Artist: Josh Barnes
Title: Leadership MB Community Mural
Date: 2022
Materials: Paint (unknown binder, likely acrylic latex) Dimensions: Varied (approximately 100’ long)
Location: Manhattan Beach Art Center, Exterior Planter
General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The mural depicts oversized ferns, hibiscus flowers, and other low plantings along the length of a low wall. At the center of the composition is an opening the flora exposing cresting waves, the ocean, and a silhouette of the Manhattan Beach Pier at nighttime. Several cacti are interspersed throughout the composition. The work is made of what appears to be acrylic or acrylic latex paint over a white primer applied to concrete masonry units. It is unclear if there are any clear UV and/or anti-graffiti protective coatings on the mural surface.
Condition:
Overall, the mural appears to be in relatively good condition. At least five (5) cracks were noted in the concrete masonry unit wall. These are likely due to settling in the wall as the wall is located on a hill. Some of the cracks may pre -date the mural itself as evidenced by paint located within the crack. There are at least five (5) localized areas along the top edge of the mural where the paint and primer are missing. In one location, the paint and primer has been peeled from the surface and his hanging forward. At the other locations, small losses of the CMU are also missing along with the paint/primer, which was likely due to abrasion. The colors still appear saturated and vibrant. There is moderate to heavy soiling along the bottom edge as well as plant clippings stuck to lower surfaces.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The mural is painted directly to a pre-existing concrete masonry unit wall. There does appear to be a primer below the topcoat. The surface prep before the primer was applied and type of primer is unknown. The mural generally appears well-adhered to the surfaces.
Comments on Location:
The mural is mounted to a low wall that borders the south end of the parking lot for the Manhattan Beach Art Center. The mural is on the outward/south facing side of this wall, which extends to the connection with the Manhattan Heights Community Center. The 31 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
majority of the mural is in full sun throughout the day. Between the mural and a retaining wall along the hill is a planter area with copious low plants throughout the space. There are a handful of larger plants/bushes along the length that encroach upon the surface of the mural and block the imagery. At least one sprinkler head was observed several inches from the face of the mural. Low grasses and climbing vines are touching and growing onto the lower surfaces of the mural. The work is technically accessible to the public, though one would need to walk through the planter area to reach the surfaces unless they leaned over the wall. The work may become damaged from landscaping activities if motorized equipment is used to trim plants immediately in front of the mural. The work is not accessible to cars. The mural is not spot lit at night, but there may be some ambient lighting from nearby streetlamps and buildings. There are no security cameras facing the mural.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
Re-direct sprinkler heads away from the face of the mural. Ideally, switch to drip irrigation in the planter. Routinely cut back plantings from the face of the mural so they are not touching. Trimming within 4” of the mural surface should be done by hand.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Sprinklers should be turned off ahead of any maintenance cleanings or treatment. An extension ladder will be required to reach upper surfaces of the mural at the east end, where it extends up the back side of a built-in storage area in the parking lot.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove dirt and loose particulate matter.
3. Cut back plantings and grass from mural surfaces by hand within 4” of mural surfaces.
4. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a hose and wash with a solution of filtered tap water and a conservation-grade detergent using soft to medium hardness bristle brushes.
5. Rinse with distilled water and remove standing water from mural surfaces.
6. Remove lifting/peeling paint to sound material
7. Spot prime areas of material loss with a masonry primer.
8. In-paint areas of loss with an exterior-grade paint that has inherent UV stabilizers.
9. If not already present on the mural, apply a protective clear coat with UV stabilizers throughout all mural surfaces to help slow color shifting and fading from prolonged UV exposure.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 26,135.00
(including clear coat application)
Estimated Special Equipment Required: Extension ladder to access upper surfaces. 32 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA
Conservation, LLC. • June 2024
Recommended M
aintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution photography.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove dirt and loose particulate matter.
3. Cut back plantings and grass from mural surfaces by hand within 4” of mural surfaces.
4. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a hose and wash with a solution of filtered tap water and a conservation-grade detergent using soft to medium hardness bristle brushes.
5. Rinse with distilled water and remove standing water from mural surfaces.
6. Once clean, inspect surfaces for damage (e.g., paint loss, scratches, abrasions, new cracks, lifting/bubbling paint, paint fading, etc.). Provide treatment recommendations and associated costs to the City.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 6,425.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Every 3-5 years
33 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Jon Berry
Title: Untitled - Utility Box #5
Date: 2020/2021
Materials: Vinyl wrap print
Dimensions: 52.25” W x 19.25” D x 54.5” H
Location: SW Corner of Manhattan Beach Blvd & Redondo Ave (along MBB) General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a printed vinyl wrap mounted to a utility box that is located between the sidewalk and roadway near a very busy intersection. The printed imagery depicts a stylized beach scene. On the north-facing side, a lifeguards tower labeled 42nd St. is shown in front of the water line with a setting sun and a helicopter in the air. On the south-facing side, one can see parts of a bicycle and ships. The color pallet includes shades of blue, tan, white, dark gray, orange, and black.
Condition:
Overal
l, the vinyl wrap appears to be in fair condition. The top, skyward facing surfaces are very blanched and degraded due to prolonged UV exposure. The material is also beginning to craze and crack as it becomes embrittled and the color is severely faded on the skyward- facing surfaces. There are also multiple areas where it appears as though aluminum corrosion is forming on the metal box below the vinyl wrap. This is occurring on all four sides of the box. On the south-facing side that is adjacent to the sidewalk, there is a large transfer abrasion mark at the southeast corner that is black in color and there is some abrasion damage to the physical structure of the wrap as well. Other scratches and abrasion marks are also noted on this face as well as graffiti ghosting from applied graffiti and what appears to be sticker adhesive residue. On the west side near the upper south west corner the wrap is lifting and peeling from the surface and there is visible aluminum corrosion below. There is also adhesive sticker residue along the top edge of this side and a roughly two-inch (2”) area loss at the lower northwest corner on this face. At the front or north panel there are up to four (4) scratches and vinyl breaches in the pictorial area, predominantly in and above the setting sun. Along the bottom edge of this face there are m ultiple areas of vinyl loss 34 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservation, LLC
. • June 2024
measuring several inches in area. Moss is growing on the lower surfaces of the north side.
There is moderate to heavy atmospheric soiling from vehicle exhaust particulates. There are also extensive networks of spiderwebs in recessed areas and dirt, garbage, and microbiological growths collecting around the bottom edge of the box.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Con dition: None at this time Comments on Mounting:
The vinyl wrap is presumably adhered with an adhesive on the verso as well as the application of heat during installation. It is unknown what type of surface preparation (if any) was performed on the utility box before application.
Comments on Locat ion:
The box is located at the southwest corner of a very busy intersection. It is highly accessible to vehicle traffic, which results in higher concentrations of corrosive vehicle exhaust particulates on the surface. It is also highly accessible to the public and shows signs of damage due to public interaction. There is ambient light from nearby street lamps in the evening. There are no overhanging tree branches or intentionally planted plants that are encroaching upon the artwork. However, at the north, east and w est sides of the box there is dirt buildup along the bottom which is supporting the growth of moss and other macro biological growths like grasses and small weeds. The north side of the box appears to predominantly be in shade. The south and west vertical faces are also somewhat more protected by shade screening on an adjacent chain- link fence. The east facing and top horizontal surfaces are the most exposed to prolong to UV light and exhibit the most color loss and deterioration.
Comments on Safet y/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
Due to poor drainage around the base of the box, routinely clear out soiling and plants.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Because the north face of the box is within two (2) feet of the roadway, any work done in situ would need to be performed in conjunction with traffic cones and partially closing the shoulder of the road for worker safety. Depending on City traffic codes, this may require permits and/or the use of a subcontracted traffic control company.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and hi gh-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose or from a Hudson Sprayer if no hose bib or quick coupler valve is nearby.
3. Wash surfaces with a solution of filtered tap or distilled water and a conservation grade detergent using microfiber cloths to remove atmospheric soiling. 35 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
a. Rinse with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
4. Remove or reduce appearance of extant accretions, particularly black transfer marks and sticker adhesive residue, with organic solvents that will not adversely impact the vinyl substrate.
5. Remove lifting areas of final wrap at areas of abrasion damage down to sound material.
6. Though the vinyl cannot be repaired in-kind in the field, we recommend applying something at the edges and areas of loss to secure the wrap so that it does not continue to peel in these areas as well as visually re-integrate the color loss. a. In paint areas of vinyl wrap loss with an exterior grade conservation paint system.
b. Apply conservation grade varnish over in painting that has inherent UV light stabilizers.
7. Compound skyward/horizontal surface of top of box with automotive or plastic polishers to try and remove some oxidated material from the surface.
8. Encapsulate skyward/horizontal surface of box with a clear coat/varnish to fill microcracks in surface and slow additional degradation of the vinyl and extant color.
9. Attempt to re-adhere lifting edges of vinyl with an exterior grade adhesive that is compatible with both aluminum and vinyl substrates.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 4,000.00 + traffic control/permits Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Stanchions and caution tape.
Estimated Special Equipment Required: None at this time.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose or from a Hudson Sprayer if no hose bib or quick coupler valve is nearby.
3. Wash surfaces with a solution of filtered tap or distilled water and a conservation grade detergent using microfiber cloths to remove atmospheric soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Remove extant accretions, particularly stick residue, with organic solvents that will not adversely impact the vinyl substrate.
6. Visually inspect surfaces for signs of additional damage and notify the City accordingly.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 910.00 + traffic control/permits Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennial
36 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/08/23
Artist: Paul Jacques Betouliere
Title: Abstract Water Works
Date: 2002
Materials: bronze, stone, mortar, grout, fountain works Dimensions: 123.5” W x 54” D x Approx 104” H
Location: East/southeast side of CMB Arts Center, at patio General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The fountain consists of a stone veneer clad rectangular wall that is undulating in its texture.
The size and shape of each stone pieces varies though the width of each course is consistent across the face. At the upper central portion of the wall is an abstract grouping of bronze undulating forms that have been welded together. On either side of the central wall is rubblestone construction with various types of stones as well as shapes and sizes that are secured in place with a sanded mortar. The fountain basin is also rectangular in shape and is clad with mica-rich stones that vary greatly in size and shape but are more rounded in the way they were cut and placed versus the stones on the back wall. The basin wall is capped with rectangular pieces of s imilar stone with polished rounded edges. The interior of the basin appears to be lined with fiberglass sheets and possible resin as well as presumably some other type of waterproofing layer. The water appears to emanate out of the top of the fountain wall and cascades down the front of said wall. Water may also emanate from multiple spouts within the central bronze sculptural form as well. The fountain has what appears to be a mild or galvanized steel framed wall coated with stucco that has been painted and serves as the overall support for the verso of the fountain.
Condition:
At the time of assessment, the fountain was not in operation, so it is not evident whether or not it is fully functional as intended. The basin has standing water with extensive amounts of plant debris and biological growth. The central bronze element is in fair condition. It appears to be structurally sound but its surface condition is fair. There does not appear to be any protective coating throughout the bronze. There are moderate to extensive buildups of 37 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
mineral deposits where water cascades over the surface as well as blue green copper corrosion and purple staining embedded in the mineral deposits due to an imbalance in water chemistry. Plant debris and spiderwebs were noted behind the sculpture and in deep recesses indicating that the work has likely not been functional for some time. The support wall behind the sculpture where water cascades appears to be highly stained with blue green copper corrosion runoff staining as well as mineral deposits. Along the edges and in select locations there is also evidence of purple staining due to an imbalance in water chemistry.
Several of the stones on the wall exhibit some degree of flaking and disaggregation as they were face bedded. The rubble stones that flank either side of the fountain appear to be in good condition and secure. At the lower 2/3 of either side there is mineral deposit buildup as well as blue green and purple staining from corrosion and an imbalance in water chemistry. The stones that comprise the lower basin retaining wall generally appear to be in good condition. There are localized areas of grout l oss. More prominent is the flaking and desegregation of the mica-rich stone that is face bedded. There does not appear to be any water loss or leakage through the face of the basin walls. The backup support wall is also in fair condition. There is a band of horizontal cracking approximately one (1) foot from the top of the wall. Ferrous corrosion staining is breaking through at both vertical corners at the backside of the wall. There is additional ferrous corrosion runoff staining as well as blue green copper corrosion staining and purple staining from water chemistry imbalance along the entirety of the top horizontal surface. Soiling, paint, and localized areas of stucco loss are noted near the center of the back wall. Additional losses and staining either from sprinkler overspray and or adjacent mulch landscaping was observed along the lower one (1) foot height of the wall.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time Comments on Mounting:
The way in which the outer basin and wall are secured or anchored is not evident. There are likely below grade footings as well as some aspect of rebar or pinning to secure the elements.
T
he mica-rich stone and rubblestone areas appear to be set with thinset mortar or concrete.
The central sculpture is likely tied into the wall structure, though it is not clear how or to wat extent as it is surrounded by stone tiles.
Comments on Location:
The front or decorative side of the fountain faces approximately northwest and is predominantly in shade throughout the majority of the day with the Arts Center blocking most afternoon sun. The backside of the fountain wall faces s outheast and receives direct sunlight in the morning. The fountain does not have any encroaching plants around its perimeter but there are several trees nearby that drop extensive amounts of debris in the basin and on the sculptural form. At this time only palm fronds overhang the artwork. The work is not accessible to vehicle or traffic but is within relatively close proximity to a busy roadway which makes it more susceptible to corrosive vehicle exhaust particulates. The work is somewhat accessible to the public. It is in a small side courtyard that is closed off with a metal gate that is approximately three (3) feet high. The gate is not locked but even if it w
here people could easily scale the wall into the patio area. The work does not appear to be directly lit at night but there is ambient lighting from the Arts Center. There are no security 38 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
cameras in this patio area to help deter vandalism. The lower back surfaces of the wall are likely hit by overspray and may be abraded during routine landscaping activities.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
Cut back nearby tree limbs that drop extensive debris into the fountain basin. Re-direct sprinkler heads away from the fountain wall.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Ladders and possibly baker scaffolding on the backside.
Treatment Priority: 2 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Address any malfunctions of the fountain works and water chemistry imbalances with a fountain professional.
3. Prior to treatment, City to drain basin of any standing/extant water.
4. Dry brush surfaces to remove atmospheric soiling and plant debris trapped within the bronze sculpture.
5. Rinse with filtered water from a low-pressure hose and wash central bronze element with a conservation-grade detergent. Wash masonry surfaces with a propri
etary masonry cleaner.
a. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water and perform final rinse with distilled water once the runoff water is pH neutral.
6. Test micro-abrasive cleaning system designed for historic surfaces on stone surfaces using soft abrasive media to determine effectiveness at removing mineral deposits as well as green corrosion staining on stone.
7. Following micro-abrasive cleaning or if cleaning is not effective, apply poultice to reduce appearance of blue green corrosion throughout stone tile backing. a. Consult with artist about intent and whether they meant for the green staining to form on these surfaces prior to mitigation attempts. b. Depending on how embedded the staining is, it may not be possible to fully remove all staining.
8. Remove any loose/failing grout and replace in kind to blend with adjacent surfaces.
9. If deemed necessary and appropriate, seal back stone wall and adjacent rubblestone to try and mitigate future staining and mineral deposit buildup.
10. Consult with artist and/or historic photographs to determine original patina/intent of central bronze sculpture.
a. Using a micro-abrasive machine designed for historic surfaces, remove existing corrosion, mineral deposits, and discolored patina down to bare bronze.
b. Re-patinate bronze to original patina intent/color. 39 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
c. Hot wax surfaces with a carnauba paste wax developed by the Getty Conservation Institute that was formulated for high heat and UV environments.
d. Once cool, apply two (2) sacrificial coats of cold paste wax to all bronze surfaces.
i. After each application, buff to desired sheen with horsehair bristle brushes and microfiber cloths.
11. At verso of fountain wall, inject cracks with a conservation-grade injection grout to stabilize and patch crack.
12. Excavate areas of corrosion along top edge and vertical edges of stucco wall. a. Mechanically remove corrosion to sound substrate and passivate. b. Prime metal and paint to encapsulate and mitigate future corrosion. c. Patch areas of opened stucco and texture to blend with adjacent surfaces. d. Clean, prepare, and re-paint the back wall to unify areas of repair and mitigate appearance of staining.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 38,150.00 + plumber/fountain works repairs Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Baker’s scaffolding, micro-abrasive cleaning system, pop-up tent, compressor Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography.
2. Prior to maintenance, City to tu rn off water and drain basin of any standing/extant water.
3. Dry brush surfaces to remove atmospheric soiling and plant debris trapped within the bronze sculpture.
4. Rinse with filtered water from a low-pressure hose and wash central bronze element with a conservation-grade detergent. Wash masonry surfaces with a proprietary masonry cleaner.
a. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water and perform final rinse with distilled water once the runoff water is pH neutral.
b. Dry surfaces to remove standing water.
5. Mechanically address any mineral deposit build-up or corrosion on the central bronze sculpture.
a. Heat surfaces of bronze with a propane torch to re-solubilize wax coating and reintegrate blanched surfaces.
b. Once dry, apply two (2) new coats of cold, sacrificial paste wax. i. Allow wax to dry after each application and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 6,900.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Annual
40 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Derek Billings
Title: Untitled - Utility Box #11
Date: 2020/2021
Materials: Vinyl wrap print
Dimensions: 33” W x 24” D x 65” H
Location: Northside of Artesian Blvd, west of Prospect Ave, near 7-Eleven General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a printed vinyl wrap mounted to a utility box that is located between the sidewalk and roadway along a busy road. The printed imagery depicts a stylized sunset beach scene. Abstract geometric birds in a triangular or check form are on several faces and are comprised of gray vertical banding. There is also a geometric stylized sailboat on the south face, also in the gray vertical banding. The ocean is comprised of horizontal bands of blue in a gradient separated by stripes of the vertical gray banding. The sunset sky is also comprised of horizontal banding gradient color from red, to orange, to yellow, again separated by bands of gray vertical banding.
Condition:
Overal
l, the vinyl wrap appears to be in fair condition. It is located within s everal feet of a busy strip mall and convenience store and appears to receive a lots of foot traffic and public interaction. The north face, which is closest to the sidewalk, exhibits multiple areas of sticker adhesive residue. There are extant stickers and additional sticker residue along the east face as well as the west face. At the south face there is one sticker remnant as well as surface soiling and some other localized abrasions. At the west face there are at least a nine or ten (9-10) localized areas of vinyl loss throughout the face. At the north face as well as the northwest and northeast edges, there are at least twenty-one ( 21) areas where the vinyl coating has been breached down to the metal. The surface is also heavily soiled, both in terms of atmospheric soiling and other accretions and drip marks of unknown liquids. At the east face, the upper edge of the panel is heavily abraded, with black transfer marks as well as vinyl material loss. There is also another loss at the lower corner and the vinyl wrap in a blue section at the north east corner is starting to lift from the edge. Due to the high traffic 41 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
nature of the roadway, the surfaces exhibit extensive soiling from corrosive vehicle exhaust particulates. There are also spiderwebs and other unknown equations throughout the surfaces particularly at the north side that faces the sidewalk. The top/horizontal surface, which is red, is noticeably discolored/faded.
Previous Conservation Treatments or C ondition: None at this time Comments on Mounting:
The vinyl wrap is presumably adhered with an adhesive on the verso as well as the application of heat during installation. It is unknown what type of surface preparation (if any) was performed on the utility box before application.
Comments on Lo cation:
The box is located along the north side of Artesia Boulevard just west of Prospect Avenue. It is located within several feet of a heavily trafficked strip mall and convenience store. It is accessible to cars and highly accessible to the public. The wrap appears to be in full sun throughout the day. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plantings. There is ambient lighting from streetlamps and businesses nearby. There may be security cameras on nearby buildings. However, neither lighting nor security cameras appear to deter vandalism on this in stallation.
Comments on Saf ety/Risk Management: None at this time Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Because the south face of the box is within 2-3 feet of the roadway, any work done in situ would need to be performed in conjunction with traffic cones and partially closing the shoulder of the road for worker safety. Depending on City traffic codes, this may require permits and/or the use of a subcontracted traffic control company.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose or from a Hudson Sprayer if no hose bib or quick coupler valve is nearby.
3. Wash surfaces with a solution of filtered tap or distilled water and a conservation grade detergent using microfiber cloths to remove atmospheric soiling. a. Rinse with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
4. Remove or reduce appearance of extant accretions, particularly black transfer marks and sticker adhesive residue, with organic solvents that will not adversely impact the vinyl substrate.
5. Remove lifting areas of final wrap at areas of abrasion damage down to sound material.
42 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
6. Though the vinyl cannot be repaired in-kind in the field, we recommend applying something at the edges and areas of loss to secure the wrap so that it does not continue to peel in these areas as well as visually re-integrate the color loss. a. In paint areas of vinyl wrap loss with an exterior grade conservation paint system.
b. Apply conservation grade varnish over in painting that has inherent UV light stabilizers.
7. Compound skyward/horizontal surface of top of box with automotive or plastic polishers to try and remove some oxidated material from the surface.
8. Encapsulate skyward/horizontal surface of box with a clear coat/varnish to slow additional degradation of the vinyl and extant color.
9. Attempt to re-adhere lifting edges of vinyl with an exterior grade adhesive that is compatible with both aluminum and vinyl substrates.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 5,875.00 + traffic control/permits Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Stanchions and caution tape.
Estimated Special Equipment Required: None at this time.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to al l maintenance images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose or from a Hudson Sprayer if no hose bib or quick coupler valve is nearby.
3. Wash surfaces with a solution of filtered tap or distilled water and a conservation grade detergent using microfiber cloths to remove atmospheric soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Remove extant accretions, particularly stick residue, with organic solvents that will not adversely impact the vinyl substrate.
6. Visually inspect surfaces for signs of additional damage and notify the City accordingly.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 910.00 + traffic control/permits Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennial
43 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Emily Brantley
Title: Untitled – Utility Box #1
Date: 2020/2021
Materials: Vinyl wrap print
Dimensions: 33” W x 37.5” D x 64.5” H
Location: Highland & Rosecrans Ave.
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a printed vinyl wrap mounted to a utility box that is located between the sidewalk and roadway near a very busy intersection. The printed imagery depicts multiple koi fish and a turtle (painted box?) swimming in a freshwater pond. Printed on the front of the box in the bottom right corner is the artist’s signature in blue and around the corner is the artist’s information with her website and email. Overall, the printed image appears like it was scanned or photographed from a hand-painted or hand-drawn artwork.
There are multiple colors used and overlaid with one another throughout the imagery with the overall palette primarily consisting of greens, whites, and shades of red and orange.
Condition:
Overall, the vinyl wrap seems to be in fair to poor condition. On the south-facing vertical surface there is texture visible pushing though below the vinyl. Seeing a portion of the vinyl missing on the surface right below, it shows that the paint underneath is deteriorating due to aluminum corrosion, causing this texturing. Along the edges of the piece there are pieces of vinyl chipped off, exposing corroded bare metal. A recessed area where the door to the utility box is has dirt and corrosion accumulation on both horizonal and vertical surface s.
There are a few cracks along the seam of some of the panels on the utility box. There are large scuff marks that did not go through the vinyl but did remove the color of the image from the vinyl surface on the south-facing side. The quality of the cuts to the vinyl around vents for the utility box vary throughout the composition. Rougher cuts/areas of removal may have been done at a later date by someone less skilled than the installers. Throughout the utility box there are small areas where the vinyl is lifting. Over all, there is dirt, debris and 44 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
spiderwebbing on the surface. Dirt run off is also predominate o n this piece. On the east - facing surface, there appear to be two (2) strips of replacement vinyl.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition:
There are at least two (2) areas on the box that may exhibit strips of replacement vinyl. If this is so, then we are unsure of when this repair occurred.
Comments on Mounting:
The vinyl wrap is presumably adhered with an adhesive on the verso as well as the application of heat during installation. It is unknown what type of surface preparation (if any) was performed on the utility box before application.
Comments on Location:
The box is located at the southwest corner of a very busy intersection. It is highly accessible to vehicle traffic, which results in higher concentrations of corrosive vehicle exhaust particulates on the surface. It is also highly accessible to the public and shows signs of damage due to public interaction. There is also a bicycle rack mounted right by the box, which may further impact how and how frequently the box is abraded. There is ambient light from nearby streetlamps in the evening. There may be security cameras on nearby buildings to help deter vandalism. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plantings. The box is in full sun throughout the day. The box is located approximately 600’ from the ocean and is subjected to ambient salts/chlorides. Corrosion of the underlying metal is pervasive and will be ongoing due to the installation’s location.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
If the City continues to put art wraps on this utility box, consider moving the bicycle rack to try and mitigate some impact/abrasion.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Because its proximity to the roadway, any work done in situ would need to be performed in con
junction with traffic cones and partially closing the shoulder of the road for worker safety.
Depending on City traffic codes, this may require permits and/or the use of a subcontracted traffic control company.
Treatment Priority: N/A Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
No treatment is recommended at this time. What appears to be corrosion forming beneath the vinyl surfaces is pervasive and cannot be reversed while maintaining this existing vinyl wrap. Ultimately, the corrosion will spread, causing larger swaths of the vinyl to delaminate from the surface of the box. Aesthetically fixing other areas of abrasion will not prolong the service life on this vinyl wrap like it may at other installations. If the wrap is replaced, the metal surface should first be fully encapsulated and then cleaned extremely well before the wrap is applied to the surface to help mitigate salts from becoming trapped between the vinyl and surface.
45 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Estim
ated Treatment Costs: Not Applicable
Estimated Special Equipment Required: None at this time.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered tap water from a low-pressure hose or from a Hudson Sprayer if no hose bib or quick coupler valve is nearby.
3. Wash surfaces with a solution of filtered tap or distilled water and a conservation grade detergent using microfiber cloths to remove atmospheric soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Remove extant accretions, particularly stick residue, with organic solvents that will not adversely impact the vinyl substrate.
6. Visually inspect surfaces for signs of additional damage and notify the City accordingly.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 910.00
+ traffic control/permits
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennial
46 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 5/31/2024
Artist: Bo Bridges
Title: Break the Silence
Date: 2022
Materials: Vinyl (?), adhesive
Dimensions: Approximately 30’ H x 30’ W
Location: Parking Structure (Highland Ave & 12th St. near Sugarfish) General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The mural is a photograph printed on vinyl of a male surfer holding onto a surfboard. The figure is under water with the rippling surface visible in the background. Bubbles are emanating from the figure’s mouth. It is possible that the tones in the image have been manipulated as the color palette is primarily shades of white, blue, and black, including the figure’s skin. The artist’s name and website are printed at the lower visual left-hand corner.
Condition:
Overall, the mural appears to be in relatively good condition with no major concerns noted at this time. The vinyl is flush with the CMU wall surface along the majority of the visual right vertical edge as well as along the bottom edge. The vinyl wraps around the visual left corner by approximately an inch. It wraps around the top edge by approximately two (2) inches. When examining the top edge, it appears that the vinyl is lifting/detaching in multiple areas. The top edge has exposed sanded aggregate and also exhibits micro biological growth.
This coupled with moisture that is absorbed into the masonry unit and below the vinyl may contribute to the vinyl detaching along this surface. When lifted, there are sand grains from the concrete adhered to the verso of the vinyl. When viewed in raking light, there may also be lifting along vertical seams in the vinyl composition, particularly toward the south end of the mural.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The vinyl is adhered directly onto a concrete masonry unit wall and cement coping. There is an unknown adhesive on the verso of the vinyl. Presumably some type of heat gun was 47 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
used when installing the vinyl to soften the adhesive and promote adhesion between the vinyl and highly textured concrete surfaces. It is unknown what type of surface preparation (if any) was performed prior to mounting the vinyl on the wall.
Comments on Location:
The mural is located on a west -facing exterior wall of a multi -story public parking garage.
This wall lines an alley between the garage and a private business/restaurant. The work cannot be viewed head-on as this adjacent building blocks the full view. There do not appear to be any exhaust vents or other HVAC equipment from the adjacent building pointed at or near the mural. When not overcast, the mural appears to be primarily in sun throughout the day. The upper edge is technically accessible to the public from the top deck of the parking garage, but there does not appear to be evidence of public interaction. There are no encroaching plantings or overhanging tree branches. The work does not appear to be spot lit, but there is ambient light from streetlamps and businesses. There do not appear to be security cameras directed at the mural. Because of its location on a parking garage and along an alleyway for a restaurant, it may be subjected to higher concentrations of corrosive vehicle exhaust particulates and grease. It will also be subjected to ongoing vibration from cars using the garage. If the adhesive becomes embrittled with age, excessive vibration may result in detachment from the concrete surface.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
Add metal or comparable flashing over wall coping to shed water away from the mural and so it is not absorbed into the coping/masonry and thus behind the mural.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
It is unknown if the alleyway is public property or if it belongs to the adjacent private business. Access may need to be negotiated. It may be possible to perform light surface cleaning from tall ladders using extension poles, but repairs will require access to the alley and use of a scissor lift or scaffolding.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered water from a low-pressure hose or Hudson sprayers if hose hook-up is not located nearby.
3. Damp clean surfaces with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse surfaces with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Treat concrete coping with non-toxic biocide to mitigate microbiological growths.
Allow treatment to dwell for at least one week before cleaning again with masonry cleaner.
48 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
6. Adhere lifting edges of vinyl with an exterior grade adhesive that will adhere to both vinyl and masonry surfaces.
7. If metal flashing is not installed along coping, consider applying a water repellant to the cement coping to help repel liquid water, which should help mitigate formation of micro biological growths under the vinyl surface as well as mitigate hydrostatic build up behind vinyl, which can also result in delamination.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 11,700.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required: Electric scissor lift or scaffolding.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution photography.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered water from a low-pressure hose or Hudson sprayers if hose hook-up is not located nearby.
3. Damp clean surfaces with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse surfaces with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Once clean, inspect surfaces to determine if there are other areas of delamination or damage and notify the City accordingly.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 3,700.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Every 3-5 years 49 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 5/31/2024
Artist: Bo Bridges
Title: Untitled (mural)
Date: 2019
Materials: Vinyl, unknown adhesive
Dimensions: Approximately 16’ L x 6’ H
Location: Live Oak Hall (indoors)
General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The artwork is a mural of a photographic print on vinyl. The image is of the Manhattan Beach Pier during the day, presumably at low tide. The color palette is very light/white with the starkness of the pier form cutting across the composition. The photographer’s signature and website are printed on the image at the lower right-hand corner.
Condition:
In general, the mural appears to be in relatively good condition. Given its location. There are several localized punctures through the vinyl face. Scratches and abrasion transfer marks are also visible throughout the lower surfaces, possibly from chairs or other equipment being moved throughout the room. Along the lower edge, there is some wrinkling/buckling of the vinyl material, though this may have occurred during the original installation. Paint transfer and what may be pencil marks were also noted in localized areas. The texture of the wall stucco is visible through the surface of the vinyl mural.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The mural is mounted on an interior painted stucco wall. There is adhesive on the verso of the vinyl. Presumably heat was applied at the face of the vinyl to help soften the adhesive as it was applied to the textured wall surface. Two cutouts for HVAC vent s are located along the top edge and one around some type of outlet that is proud of the wall surface. The mural terminates at the vertical wall corners and the ceiling. The bottom edge is bordered by a black band of an unknown material.
50 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Comments on Location:
The mural is mounted on an interior, northeast facing wall within a small building within Live Oak Park. The door to this room is locked unless it is being used by City staff. It appears to primarily be used for children’s programming as there were bags of crayons, small/low chairs, and low coat hooks in the space. There are two large skylights in the room as well as a large window on the opposite wall. It is unknown if there are any UV blocking films on the skylights. There is a perforated sheet film on the window, but this is partially torn along the bottom. There are two (presumably) fluorescent lights above and near the mural. There are two HVAC vents in the wall where the mural is located and one in the ceiling close to the mural wall. There is corrosio n on this ceiling vent and the wall -mounted vent on the visual right is releasing dirt/dust, which is staining the ceiling directly above. This may also be transferring to the mural face. Of most concern is the proximity of the tables and chairs.
Most damage to the mural is occurring at the lower third, which is the most accessible to those occupying the space.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
Add some type of railing/bumper along the mural wall to mitigate people pushing or leaning chairs into the mural surface. Ensure vent grates are adjusted to point away from artwork surfaces.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Use of a low work bench or six-foot (6’) ladder to reach upper surfaces.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Dry-clean surfaces with a microfiber cloth to remove loose surface dust/soiling.
3. Damp-clean surface with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent using microfiber cloths.
4. Damp-rinse surfaces with distilled water on microfiber cloths and dry.
5. Attempt to reduce or remove pencil and other transfer marks with various types of erasers.
6. Attempt to reduce or remove transfer paint with organic solvents.
7. Adhere lifting vinyl with a conservation-grade adhesive compatible with both vinyl and painted stucco surfaces.
8. Fill losses in vinyl surface with a conservation-grade fill material that is compatible with painted stucco and vinyl substrates. Smooth to blend with adjacent surfaces.
9. In-paint fills with a conservation-grade paint system and seal with clear varnish that has inherent UV light stabilizers.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 3,515.00
51 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Estimated Special Equipment Required: None at this time.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Dry-clean surfaces with a microfiber cloth to remove loose surface dust/soiling.
3. Damp-clean surface with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent using microfiber cloths.
4. Damp-rinse surfaces with distilled water on microfiber cloths and dry.
5. Attempt to reduce or remove pencil and other transfer marks with various types of erasers.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 1,370.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Every 3-5 years
52 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 5/31/2024
Artist: Bo Bridges
Title: Midnight Blues
Date: 2023
Materials: Vinyl, plastic/composite panels, unknown hardware (stainless steel?) Dimensions: Approximately 50’ L x 15’-20’ H
Location: Manhattan Beach City Hall exterior wall
General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The installation consists of a printed photograph on vinyl of the Manhattan Beach Pier at dusk or evening. The streetlamps along the pier are lit, reflecting on the water below.
Condition:
Overall, the mural appears to be in good condition and the panels to which it is adhered secure on their mounts. Presumably because of the thinness of the panels and how they are riveted to either the substrate or frame, the connections between panels are slightly undulating with small gaps both horizontally and vertically. As such, there is some soiling in a runoff/drip pattern emanating along some horizontal edges. The drip marks are visible in raking light. Bird droppings in a drip pattern were noted locally across the mural face. The heads of hardware used to secure the panel appear to be proud of the panel surfa ces, resulting in slight bulges in the vinyl material. As the vinyl ages and becomes more brittle over time, these may be areas where the vinyl rips at areas of tension.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The vinyl mural is mounted/adhered to individual plastic/composite panels that are secured either to a subframe or the exterior surface of City Hall directly. If there is a subframe mounted to the exterior wall, it is very shallow and not readily evident. The heads of hardware securing the panels are somewhat visible through the applied vinyl. The type, size, and material composition of the hardware is unknown. The mural itself has an unknown adhesive on the verso. The mural panels were likely applied with the aid of heat to soften the adhesive and aid it in bonding with the plastic/composite surfaces. There is some overlap 53 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
of individual vinyl piece. Joints between composite panels appear to have been scored so there are very slight gaps in between panels.
Comments on Location:
The mural is located on an exterior wall of Manhattan Beach City Hall. The mural faces southeast and appears to be in full sun throughout the day. It extends from the top of the building to an elevated planter that is part of an ADA ramp into the side of the building. The area most easily accessible to the public is the lower righthand corner that is near the secure door to the building. However, people could conceivably get into the planter and access lower surfaces of the mural. There are no overhanging or encroaching tree branches. The low plantings in the elevated planter do come into contact with the lower 1’-2’ of the mural.
It appears that drip irrigation is used throughout the planter. The installation site is less than 1000 feet from the ocean. This should not adversely impact the vinyl or plastic substrate, but could have adverse impacts on the hardware, depending on what material was used and its exposure to ambient salts. The work is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient lighting throughout the civic complex and streetlamps. There are security cameras throughout the civic complex, though it is not clear if they capture the full surface area of the mural.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
None at this time. Though not ideal to have plantings touching artwork faces as they can trap moisture on surfaces, the vinyl and its substrate are non-porous. As long as landscaping staff are careful when working in the planter to not scratch the vinyl, this site composition should be fine for the mural.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
An articulating boom lift will be required to reach all upper surfaces of the mural as they are not easily accessible from the planter area with a ladder and scaffolding will be prohibitively expensive. Since it is a high pedestrian pathway and City staff use the ramp as an entrance to City Hall, advance notice should be given that the area will be partially closed to pedestrians when work is occurring. Stanchions and caution tape will be used to cordon off the work area.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered water from a low-pressure hose or Hudson sprayers if hose hook-up is not located nearby.
3. Damp clean surfaces with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse surfaces with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Utilize plastic/vinyl surface cleaners to try and reduce staining from runoff between panels through gentle surface polishing.
54 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Estim
ated Treatment Costs: $ 13,450.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required: Articulating boom lift Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution digital photography.
2. Rinse surfaces with filtered water from a low-pressure hose or Hudson sprayers if hose hook-up is not located nearby.
3. Damp clean surfaces with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse surfaces with distilled water and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Once clean, inspect surfaces to determine if there are other areas of delamination or damage and notify the City accordingly.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 6,245.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Every 3-5 years
55 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: CK Architecture
Title: Untitled – Strand Bench for K.L. Hunter
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: pigmented concrete
Dimensions: 38” W x 34” H x 84” L
Location: Strand at 12th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a turquoise concrete bench, mimicking an abstract ocean wave form with evenly spaced vertical recessed lines extending from east to west across the entirety of the surface. Presumably the bench was cast in one singular form. The seating arrangement on the bench diverges in two (2) directions; one facing east, accommodating one (1) person, and the other facing west, accommodating two (2) individuals. Despite the physical separation, the distinct seating openings delineate the two areas. The bench is supported by eight (8) feet in total, with four (4) on the east side and four (4) on the west side. The bench has been painted turquoise; it is not integral to the concrete. On each side of seating, there are three (3) openings in the bench to allow for drainage. It is unknown if there is any internal armature and if so, to what extent. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted into the concrete pavement nearby the bench.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be in fair condition there are hairline cracks along both sides on the seat element that run the length of the bench and down one of the sides. It is possible that this is caused by corrosion of internal ferrous rebar and/or settlement. The drainage holes on the seat elements appear to be blocked up and possibly clogged with dirt and debris.
There is applied graffiti tagging as well as graffiti ghosting in multiple areas on all sides of the bench. There may have been an applied clear coating at some point (potentially anti- graffiti?) which appears somewhat yellowed in color. The horizontal surfaces of the bench where people sit or more burnished and shinier compared to other surfaces which appear lighter in color and also dry and less saturated. The seat back of the larger section that faces west exhibit signs of abrasion with minor surface loss most likely from people sitting on top of this element.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this tim e. 56 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
Comme
nts on Mounting:
The method of how the bench is mounted to the concrete pavement is not visible, but likely includes ferrous pins that are epoxied or mortared into the pavement.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along the strand at the intersection with 12th street. To the west of the bench is a drop off with a planter area followed by a parking lot, bike path, and then the beach. It receives full sun throughout the day. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. The bench is highly susceptible to public interaction.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
When performing treatment, it would be beneficial to encircle the bench with security fencing and privacy screen to allow materials to cure before people touch/sit on the bench.
For general maintenance cleanings, stanchions and caution tape should be sufficient.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for ongoing routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fencing with privacy screen around the perimeter of the bench, ensuring there is enough space to pass per ADA guidelines. Secure fencing with a chain and combination lock, providing the combination to the City.
3. Extract paint sample from bench surface and view under magnification to color match and determine original shade of teal.
4. Dry-brush and vacuum surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
5. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
6. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
7. Remove extant graffiti tags and adhesive residue with proprietary solvents.
8. Route and inject cracks with a conservation-grade injection grout to stabilize.
9. Fill cracks and patch areas of loss with a conservation-grade patching mortar that is compatible with concrete substrates.
a. Profile fills to be flush with adjacent surfaces.
10. Scarify/sand surfaces to prepare for re-painting and remove loose, failing paint coating.
a. Clear residue with organic solvents.
57 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservati
on, LLC. • June 2024
11. Re-paint bench based on the extracted paint sample using an exterior-grade acrylic latex paint that is resistant to micro biological growths and is compatible with masonry substrates.
12. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a non-sacrificial anti-graffiti coating to all surfaces to help mitigate tagging.
13. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen. h. Note: The only way to truly preserve a golden patina is to lacquer the br
onze surface. However, since the plaque is embedded in the pavement and will be quickly abraded, any lacquer coating will quickly fail. Hot waxing is easier to renew during future maintenances.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 16,900.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Generator (if there are no electrical outlets) and compressor.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Inspect all surfaces for signs of damage and notify the City accordingly.
6. Re- apply two (2) coats of cold paste wax to dedication plaque, buffing each layer after it dries with a horsehair bristle brush.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 1,050.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
58 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservation, LLC
. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: CK Architecture
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for Steve Pestano
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: Painted concrete
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96”L
Location: Strand and 36th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a turquoise concrete bench, mimicking an abstract ocean wave form with evenly spaced vertical recessed lines extending from east to west across the entirety of the surface. Presumably the bench was cast in one singular form. The seating arrangement on the bench diverges in two (2) directions; one facing east, accommodating one (1) person, and the other facing west, accommodating two (2) individuals. Despite the physical separation, the distinct seating openings delineate the two areas. The bench is supported by eight (8) feet in total, with four (4) on the east side and four (4) on the west side. The bench has been painted turquoise; it is not integral to the concrete. On each side of seating, there are three (3) openings in the bench to allow for drainage. It is unknown if the re is any internal armature and if so, to what extent. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted into the concrete pavement nearby the bench.
Condition:
The bench is currently in fair overall condition, but remains structurally sound. There is a horizontal crack traversing the west-facing side of the bench seat. It does not continue into the adjacent east-facing seat. However, j ust below the integral seat drains, minor vertical hairline cracks are visible on the east-facing seat. Small concrete losses are observed on both seats and the backing of the two (2)-seater section. A purple applied graffiti tag is located on the west-facing seat, and a white tag affixed on the east-facing seat. Scuff marks, paint loss, and "bug holes" are scattered throughout the bench. Only the “bug holes” are original to the fabrication of the bench. The paint on the seat areas exhibits signs of wear with the tan, sanded aggregate of the concrete starting to become visible. The underside of the bench harbors a notable accumulation of dirt and debris. Additionally, the bench exhibits a substantial buildup of dirt, debris, and bird droppings. A large number of spider webs are also present underneath the bench. The bronze dedication plaque appears secure, but the 59 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH Wh>/ Zd KE^
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ŽŶ͕ >>͘ • June 2024
surface condition is also fair. There may be a failing lacquer coating. The raised text and border exhibit extensive tarnish as well as blue green and red cuprite corrosion.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The bench has eight (8) small integral footings/”feet” emanating from the underside of the bench. These points of contact are most likely anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar to the surrounding pavement.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand, which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a planter that leads to a parking lot and then the beach, which is approximately 200’- 300’ away. The work appears to be in shade in the morning due to nearby buildings and in full sun in the afternoon. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. It is unknown if there are any sprinklers in the adjacent planter that may overspray the bench.
It is highly accessible to the public and receives a good degree of public interaction as evidenced by the surface damage and w ear. The work is not spot lit, but there may be some ambient light from nearby buildings and the parking lot. There are no known security cameras in the area to help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
When performing treatment, it would be beneficial to encircle the bench with security fencing and privacy screen to allow materials to cure before people touch/sit on the bench.
For general maintenance cleanings, stanchions and caution tape should be sufficient.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for ongoing routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fencing with privacy screen around the perimeter of the bench, ensuring there is enough space to pass per ADA guidelines. Secure fencing with a chain and combination lock, providing the combination to the City.
3. Extract paint sample from bench surface and view under magnification to color match and determine original shade of teal.
4. Dry-brush and vacuum su rfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
5. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
6. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
60 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
7. Remove extant graffiti tags and adhesive residue with proprietary solvents.
8. Route and inject cracks with a conservation-grade injection grout to stabilize.
9. Fill cracks and patch areas of loss with a conservation-grade patching mortar that is compatible with concrete substrates.
a. Profile fills to be flush with adjacent surfaces.
10. Scarify/sand surfaces to prepare for re-painting and remove loose, failing paint coating.
a. Clear residue with organic solvents.
11. Re-paint bench based on the extracted paint sample using an exterior-grade acrylic latex paint that is resistant to micro biological growths and is compatible with masonry substrates.
12. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a non-sacrificial anti-graffiti coating to all surfaces to help mitigate tagging.
13. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina developm
ent with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen. h. Note: The only way to truly preserve a golden patina is to lacquer the bronze surface. However, since the plaque is embedded in the pavement and will be quickly abraded, any lacquer coating will quickly fail. Hot waxing is easier to renew during future maintenances.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 16,900.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Generator (if there are no electrical outlets) and compressor.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled w ater to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. Inspect all surfaces for signs of damage and notify the City accordingly. 61 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
6. Re- apply two (2) coats of cold paste wax to dedication plaque, buffing each layer after it dries with a horsehair bristle brush.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 1,050.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
62 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for A.D. Adden
Date: 2017
Materials: GRFP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 21st Street
General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a sanded finish and thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together.
There is likely an internal metallic armature, but its composition and design are not evident from the artwork’s exterior. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with recessed curved shapes throughout the top of the bench. A deep recess in the shape of a fish was noted in the top at the south end of the bench. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted into the surrounding pavement.
Condition:
Overall, this bench appears to be in good co ndition with no cracks, losses, or other structural concerns noted. The surface appears to be intact and, unlike other benches of similar composition, the gel coat on top of the bench does not appear to be milky or cloudy in any way. There are hairline scratches throughout the majority of surfaces, but they do not appear to breach the full depth of the clear coating. There is a gum accretion on the west side and a white unknown accretion at the southeast leg. The dedication plaque exhibits blue green corrosion on the raised border and lettering as well as darkening/tarnish of the original patina.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 63 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a steep hill drop off covered with plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The work is approximately 200’-300’ from the ocean. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. There do not appear to be any sprinklers in the planter in front of the bench that overspray onto the artwork. It is highly accessible to the public and is in full sun throughout the day. The work is not spot lit at night, but there may be ambient lighting from nearby streetlamps and buildings to help deter vandalism. There are not visible security cameras in the area.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
On-site treatment will require security f encing with privacy screen to mitigate interaction with the general public. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled and transported for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
a. Damp rinse with distilled water and dry.
4. Polish resin surface with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of fine superficial scratches.
5. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
6. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light gol
den color.
64 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
e. Apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments. f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 2,000.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Esti
mated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
65 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for A. Wellman
Date: 2019
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 4th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with a raised fin across the center that somewhat delineates the seating into two (2) separate areas. There are recessed curb forms as well as raised ovoid forms. The overall color of the legs is natural sand. The bench portion appears to be natural sand colored with an added translucent blue gel coat that is thicker and more vibrant in some areas than others. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is embedded in a nearby concrete planter curb.
Condition:
Over
all, the bench appears to be structurally sound with no cracks or losses noted throughout any of the services. The aesthetic condition is fair primarily due to damage to the translucent blue coating throughout the bench element. There are scratches that cut through this layer, which has resulted in the coating lifting and flaking. There are multiple areas of blue coating loss ranging in size from an eraser on a pencil to several inches in diameter.
The bronze plaque appears secure in its location. The raised lettering and border have become tarnished from their golden color to darker brown with some blue green corrosion forming.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 66 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along the strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a steep hill covered with plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach.
The beach is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. There are no known sprinklers in the planter area that overspray the artwork. The bench is highly accessible to the public, as evidenced by the damage sustained. It is in full sun throughout the day and does not appear to be spot lit at night. There is ambient light from nearby streetlamps that may help deter vandalism. There are no known security cameras in the vicinity.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate i nteraction with the public. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Damp clean surfaces with a solution of filtered water and a conservation grade detergent to remove atmospheric soiling.
a. Rinse with distilled water and dry.
3. Consolidate areas where the clear coating is lifting with a solvent-based adhesive resin.
4. In-fill areas of missing coating with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
5. Polish resin su rfaces with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of fine superficial scratches.
6. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering. 67 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
7. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color.
e. Apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments. f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 10,625.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain and combination lock. Generator if there are no power outlets nearby.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose part iculate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
68 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench Donated by the family of Barbra Fine Date: ca. 2019
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 32nd Street
General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with a raised fin across the center that somewhat delineates the seating into two (2) separate areas. There are recessed curved forms as well as raised ovoid forms.
The overall color of the bench is natural sand. The legs to this bench are a deeper tan color in comparison to the top, which almost has a milky, pearlescent quality to it. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is embedded in the raised planter curb to the west of the bench.
Condition:
The bench is overall in good condition and structurally sound, exhibiting no heavy scratches.
A
n applied graffiti t ag is present on the southeast end of the top surface. The sealant connecting the top of the bench to the legs appears to be crinkling, possibly due to improper curing. Along the inherent seam of the bench seat, a crack is visible on the south end of the bench, exhibiting signs of expressing moisture as evidenced by chalky salt deposits emerging from the crack. These deposits are easily wiped away. The join line where the two conjoining parts form the seat of the bench is showing cracks, with some areas b elow this seam line experiencing chipping of the coating. Bug holes are present on the northern top surface, and a black scuff mark was found on the eastern underside of the bench. A s nail was discovered on the caulking connecting the legs and the seat. Tw o gum accretions are attached to that same sealant on the west side. On the south end of the bench, there is a black dotty residue t
hat slightly comes off when rubbed. The dedication plaque exhibits bright blue green corrosion throughout the raised letter and border surfaces as well as darkening due to oxidation.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 69 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a steep hill covered with plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach.
The bench is approximately 200’ – 300’ from the ocean. There are no overhanging tree branches or plants that encroach the bench. Several low plants are overhanging the dedication plaque. It is unknown if there are any sprinklers in the planter that overspray the bench. The work is highly accessible to the public, as evidenced by the surface condition.
The bench is in full sun throughout the day and is not spot lit at night. There is ambient light from nearby streetlamps that may help deter vandalism. There are no visible security cameras.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements: Trim low plantings back away from the dedication plaque.
Acces
s/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
On-site treatment will require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate interaction with the public during the various treatment processes and cure times.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant graffiti tagging with organic solvents.
7. Route and infill perimeter/seam cracks using conservation grade epoxy, letting it cure per the manufacturer’s specifications.
8. In-fill areas of missing coating along the repaired edge/seam with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling t he missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be 70 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
9. Polish resin surface with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of any fine superficial scratches.
10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
E
stimated Treatment Costs: $ 10,175.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
71 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • November 2023
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for Bill and Benita Haley Date: ca. 2019
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 29th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with recessed curve and swirl designs. The overall color is blue green.
There is a small, square bronze dedication plaque mounted to the raised curb along the planter area.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be structurally sound. The surface is in fair condition. A hairline crack in the tinted gel coat at the southeast corner of the bench below the seam was noted. There are casting imperfections throughout the top of the bench seat resulting in “bug ho
le” depressions, particularly around the curved edge of the bench seat. It is unclear whether the color is meant to be blue green or if it was originally blue and has become discolored due to yellowing of the resin with prolonged UV exposure and weathering overtime. Throughout the top of the bench seat the color is very uneven. The resin is very worn in areas of high abrasion resulting in degradation and thinning of the resin and thus a more exposed aggregate. In some areas the coating appears somewhat hazy and milky.
Along the outer edges of the bench seat, the coating looks very soiled and green brown in color. The lower surfaces of the legs also exhibit a slight white hazy appearance, possibly from mineral deposits or some type of interaction with chemical cleaners. Gum residue, stickers, and applied graffiti were noted at the west facing side and gum accretion on the east facing side. The dedication plaque appears to be secure. There is blue green corrosion forming on the raised lettering and border and these surfaces have also tarnished from golden to darker brown.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 72 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • November 2023
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a broad sloping lawn covered with grass and succulents followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ away. The work is in full sun throughout the day. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. No sprinklers were observed in the planter area that may overspray the bench. It is highly accessible to the public as evidenced by the surface condition. The work is not spot lit at night, though there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps. There do not appear to be any security cameras in the vicinity to help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment will require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate i nteraction with the public as materials cure. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant graffiti tagging with organic solvents.
7. Secure areas of lifting coating with an acrylic resin adhesive.
8. In-fill areas of missing coating and “bug hole” depressions with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces. Filling “bug holes” may help mitigate cracks and losses forming in these areas.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differe
ntly than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance.
9. Prep surface of resin with light scarification and apply an additional layer of tinted resin overtop to re-establish a greater gel coat thickness over the sanded surface as the existing one has worn considerably over time.
73 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • November 2023
a. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appr opriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 12,775.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
74 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for C. Broderick
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 33rd Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair Poor X
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with curve and swirl recessed forms throughout the top of the bench.
Overall, the color is blue with a greenish tint in some areas. The rounded edge of the bench seat is a brighter more intense blue. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted to the low curb between the bench and planter area.
Condition:
Overall, the bench is in relatively poor condition. Along the west edge of the bench there is a stepped crack in t he GFRC substrate that measures at least 2- 3’ long. Towards the southwest edge of the seat, mineral deposits are leaching out of the cracks and running down the side of the south leg. We believe this is due to several sprinkler heads in the planter area in front of the bench and water droplet marks elsewhere on the surface at the time of assessment. The mineral deposits coming from the cracks indicates that the clearcoat has been breached and liquid water is getting into the interior of the bench. If there is any internal metal armature, there could be corrosion occurring that we cannot see and that can eventually lead to additional cracks in the GFRC. There are additional localized losses in the gel coat down to the substrate along the east edge, most likely from abrasion.
Generally, the gel coat on the bench is very hazy and milky in color due to prolonged UV exposure and overall degradation. At the raised surfaces, the coating is more opaque as it is crazing and starting to flake off of the surface. There are extensive scratches throughout this upper surface as well as localized areas of incised graffiti. W hile the edge coating is vibrant blue and still retains its sheen, the skyward facing surface of the bench and the legs have a 75 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
somewhat green tint to them in addition to the blanched areas. It is unclear whether this is intentional or if the resin has yellowed overtime again due to prolonged UV exposure.
Additional staining and discoloration have made sections look soiled and brown. Scratches, chewing gum accretions, and various transfer marks were also noted on the bench legs. The dedication plaque exhibits bright blue green corrosion throughout the raised letter and border surfaces as well as darkening due to oxidation.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a sandy and succulent lawn with multiple visible sprinkler heads visible followed by a sloping hill with more succulents, a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is within 200’-300’ of the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. The b ench is highly accessible to the public. The work appears to be in full sun throughout the day and is hit with sprinkler overspray. The bench is not spot lit at night but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps to help deter vandalism. There are no visible security cameras in the area.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements:
Sprinkler heads should be removed and switched to full drip irrigation or switch to hand watering for the lawn. However, this may be private property and not city owned.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
On-site treatment will require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate interaction with the public during the various treatment processes and cure times.
Treatment Priority: 2 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Ri ns
e with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents. 76 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
7. In-fill areas of missing coating and surface depressions with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces. Filling depressions may help mitigate cracks and losses forming in these areas.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance.
8. Prep surface of resin by sanding to remove loose, embrittled material and apply an additional layer of tinted resin overtop to re-establish a greater gel coat thickness over the sanded surface as the existing one has worn considerably over time. a. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
9. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
10. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as scu lptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 17,230.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to r emove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
77 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Es
timated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
78 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for Charlotte
Date: 2015
Materials: GFRP, resin coating
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 10th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form. There are recessed forms that curve throughout the top of the bench.
The overall color is beige with the legs appearing a more golden yellow than the top of the bench, which has a milkier, pearlescent quality to it. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted to the low curb between the bench and planter area.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be structurally sound, but the condition is fair. Cracks are forming along the bench seam at the east and n orth/northwest sides of the bench. There are accretions on the legs as well as extensive networks of hairline scratches in the gel coat throughout the top of the bench. There are small losses in the gel coat in localized areas throughout the top of the bench as well. At the joint between the bench legs and seat, the tan sealant appears to be starting to pull away from the surface and deteriorate. The dedication plaque appears secure in its location. Small pinhead areas of blue green corrosion are forming on the raised lettering and text. The surface color of these areas has shifted from golden to dark brown as they have oxidized.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a planter area with low plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. 79 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. No sprinklers were observed in the adjacent planter area that may overspray the bench. The work appears to be in full sun throughout the day. It is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps and buildings. The bench is highly accessible to the general public as evidenced by the level of surface wear.
There are no visible security cameras in the vicinity of the bench to help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Co nsiderations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with the general public.
Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure w ith chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents.
7. Route and infill perimeter/seam cracks using conservation grade epoxy, letting it cure per the manufacturer’s specifications.
8. In-fill areas of missing coating along the repaired edge/seam as well as other superficial losses with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
9. Polish resin surface with an aut omotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of any fine superficial scratches.
10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
80 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 12,775.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
81 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for Doug Hocking
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand north of 5th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form. There are recessed curving forms throughout the surface. The overall color is beige with the legs appearing a more golden yellow than the top of the bench, which is milkier and pearlescent in color. There is a small, square bronze dedication plaque mounted in the pavement immediately west of the bench.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be in relativel y good condition with no structural concerns noted. There is an ar ea of minor surface loss at the west side of the bench where it curves inward. There appears to be a thin film applied over the seating element that is not a gel like coating observed on other benches. This film appears to have discolored and turned hazy and almost blue in tone especially at the vertical edges of the seat. There are multiple losses of this thin coating around the edges with a larger more prominent loss at the north end. The raised lettering and border on the dedication plaque h ave discolored from gold to dark brown due to oxidation. Pinhead areas of blue green corrosion were also noted throughout these raised surfaces.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar. 82 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. Small planter areas with low plants are located to the north and south of the bench. There do not appear to be sprinklers present in either planter that overspray the bench. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ to the west of the bench. The work appears to be in full sun throughout the day. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. It is highly accessible to the public as evidenced by the surface condition of the bench seat. It is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps and buildings to help deter vandalism. There to not appear to be any visible security cameras in proximity to the bench.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
On-site treatment will require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate interaction with the general public during t he various treatment processes and cure times.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents.
7. Patch areas of surface loss with epoxy bulked with sand aggregate to blend with adjacent surfaces.
8. In-fill areas of missing coating with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is per formed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
9. Polish resin surface with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of any fine superficial scratches.
83 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 10,175.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maint enance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
84 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/13
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Donated by the Gonella's for Mikey & the Cornelia De Lange Syndrome Foundation
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 13th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The
artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thin clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with recessed curved shapes throughout the top of the bench. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted into the raised curb at the planter border to the west of the bench.
Condition:
While the bench appears to be structurally stable, the surf ace condition of t he bench is fair.
A
sticker is situated o n the west side of the bench, positioned ab o ve the leg. The caulking t
hat joins the legs to the top of t he bench has blackened and now bears multiple pieces of gum. Black scuff marks are present along the perimeter of the bench, primarily concentrated in this area. Addit ionally, num erous "bug holes," which are air bubbles that developed during the drying of t he resin, can be observed. The re sin itself is very m ilky in c olor with le ss aggregate visible than the other com par able benches. It is not clear if this is intentional or the resin itself has s omehow become discolored over t ime with age and/or pr olonged UV exposure. This should b e checked again st in stallation p hotographs. There are also differences in color throughout the milky resin, wi th some areas l ooki ng brighter and whiter while others appear more yellow/brown. The surface of the bench, as well as the surrounding base, shows signs of dirt, debris, and what appear s to be food remains. The raised border and t
ext of the dedication plaque have tarnished from gol d t o darker brown in color w ith oxidation/weathering. Blue green corrosion is also starting to take hold on these surfaces.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 85 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Comm
ents on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a steep hill drop off covered with plants followed by a two lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. There do not appear to be any sprinklers in the planter that overspray the bench. The bench is highly accessible to the public as evidenced by its surface condition. The bench is in full sun throughout the day. It is not spot lit, but there is ambient lighting from nearby streetlamps and buildings that may help deter vandalism. There do not appear to be any security cameras in the vicinity of the bench.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
On-site treatment will require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate interaction with the general public during the various treatment processes and cure times.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents.
7. In-fill areas of missing coating and “bug holes” with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
86 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
8. Polish resin surfaces with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce more noticeable differences in color throughout the surface.
9. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
10. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 9,350.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
87 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled – Strand Bench for Ed Gavaldon
Date: 2017
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 14th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top, giving it a very smooth surface compared to the others. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant.
The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form. There are recessed curb forms as well as raised ovoid forms. The overall color is beige and appears to be generally uniform between the legs and seat. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is embedded in the low curb between the bench and planter area to the west.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be in relatively good condition and structurally sound. On the surface, there are dark splotches that resemble watermarks on both the north and south sides of the bench, at all three (3) depressions where people are meant to sit. It is unclear if these are imperfections created when the bench was cast or if moisture or other liquids have collected below the gel coat somehow over time. Either way, these will likely not be mitigated through general surface cleaning or polishing. Between the curve forms, situated on the west side, there are hairline cracks in the clear gel coat. The caulking on the bottom is still in good condition. On the east side of the legs, small scuff marks and minor scratches are present throughout the surface, visible only at certain angles and lighting conditions. The raised lettering and border on the dedication plaque are starting to shift color from gold to darker brown with swaths of blue green corrosion due to weathering/oxidation.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 88 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Con
servation, LLC. • June 2024
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a steep hill drop off covered with plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. No sprinklers were visible in the planter area that may overspray onto the bench. The work is highly accessible to the general public. The bench is in full sun throughout the day. It is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps and buildings that may help deter vandalism. There do not appear to be any security cameras in the vicinity of the bench.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: Not available at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements: Not available at this time.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with the general public.
Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Damp clean surfaces with a solution of filtered water and a conservation grade detergent to remove atmospheric soiling.
a. Rinse with distilled water and dry.
3. Remove or mitigate extant transfer marks and accretions with organic solvents.
4. Route cracks with fine rotary tools.
5. In-fill cracks with clear resin to blend the areas of repair with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical composit
ions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
6. Polish resin surfaces with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of fine superficial scratches.
7. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering. 89 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Cons
ervation, LLC. • June 2024
8. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color.
e. Apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments. f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 7,050.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain and combination lock. Generator if there are no power outlets nearby.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
90 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conservation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for Elliot Mills
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 41th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form. There are recessed curb forms as well as raised ovoid forms.
The overall color is beige with the legs appearing a more golden yellow than the top of the bench, which is milkier and pearlescent. The edges of the piece also seem to have a pinkish hue. This could be from the layer of the gel coating accumulating thicker along this edge.
There is a small, square bronze dedication plaque mounted to the low curb to the west, between the planter and bench.
Condition:
Wh
ile the bench appears to be structurally sta ble, the surf ace condition is fair. Multiple cracks are present through the gel coat within the recessed forms, primarily located at the north end of the bench on both the east and west sides. Fine atmospheric soiling has become embedded in the cracks, making them appear more prominent. Throughout the bench, there are spots of discoloration in dark hues, ranging from gray to a dirty brown/beige color. It is unclear if these are areas of repair or if these areas of discoloration are inherent to the artworks’ fabrication. On the west side of the bench, on the upper edge, a large black scuff mark is noticeable, accompanied by a few yellow and white scuff/paint transfer marks above it. These are likely from skateboarders riding along the bench edge. A dditionally, two (2) minor losses are observed on the east side of the bench. There are also several “bug holes” in localized areas of the gel coat finish, exposing aggregate below. On the southwest end of the bench seat, there are unknown orange crumb remnants, as well as two (2) small splotches of white paint. The raised border and text of the de dication plaque h ave discolored from gold to brown with swaths of blue green corrosion throughout.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 91 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a planter that leads to a parking lot and then the beach. The ocean is within 200’-300’ of the bench. The work appears to be in shade in the morning due to nearby buildings and in full sun in the afternoon. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants.
There do not appear to be any sprinklers in the planter area to the west that overspray the bench. One of the low plants in the planter is in contact with the surface of the dedication plaque. The bench is highly accessible to the public, as evidenced by its surface condition.
The work is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps and buildings. There do not appear to be any security cameras in the area to help deter vand
alism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
Trim back plantings so that they do not obscure the dedication plaque. Plants in contact with metal surfaces can trap moisture, which promotes corrosion.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with the public. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Damp clean surfaces with a solution of filtered water and a conservation grade detergent to remove atmospheric soiling.
a. Rinse with distilled water and dry.
3. Remove or mitigate extant transfer marks and accretions with organic solvents.
4. Route cracks with fine rotary tools.
5. In-fill cracks and “bug holes” with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical composi
tions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
92 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
6. Polish resin surfaces with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of fine superficial scratches.
7. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
8. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color.
e. Apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments. f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 9,350.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain and combination lock. Generator if there are no power outlets nearby.
Recom
mended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
93 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for Fred and Carol Tomlinson Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 41st Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form. There are recessed curb forms as well as raised ovoid forms. The color is teal blue on the bench seat with the legs appearing a more golden yellow. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is embedded in the low curb to the west of the bench, before the planter.
Condition:
While the bench appears to be structurally stable, the surface condition is fair. There is a thin layer of an unknown clear coating on the bench part that is failing, with the coating flaking off. The surface under the lost areas still retains its original surface epoxy gel coating.
In areas where the thin clear coating has been lost, the color appears to be a lighter blue- green compared to the surrounding areas where the thin clear coating is intact. These losses are present throughout the edge of the piece but are more prominent on the south end of the bench. It is possible that whatever the thin clear coat is was applied to help protect the tinted gel coat from UV degradation. Where the thin coating has been lost, the resin may have discolored/yellowed somewhat due to aging and prolonged UV exposure. Other areas where this coating is still intact also look somewhat cloudy and blanched. On the west end, there is a small chip exposing the underlying sand aggregate. There are networks of fine, hairline scratches throughout the surface and an unknown white accretion along one edge. Other more prominent scrapes and transfer marks are evident along the east edge, which is most accessible to pedestrians. The bench also accumulates a significant amount of dirt and debris on the
surface. The clear coat on the dedication plaque is failing, exhibiting blanching, lifting and bubbling in the recessed areas. The raised border and text have shifted from gold to exhibiting blue green and red cupric corrosion throughout. 94 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a planter leading to a parking lot and then the beach. The bench is within 200’ – 300’ of the ocean. The work appears to be in shade in the morning due to nearby buildings and in full sun in the afternoon. There are two large planters sitting by at each end of the bench.
There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. No sprinklers were noted in any of the nearby planter areas. The bench is highly accessible to the public as evidenced by its surface condition. The work is not spot lit, but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps and buildings that may help deter vandalism. There do not appear to be any security cameras in the area around the bench.
C
omments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment will require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate interaction with the public as materials cure. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions and transfer marks with organic solvents.
7. Remove any loose/lifting coating down to sound material.
8. In-fill area of missing coating with tinted resin to blend the area of loss with the s
urrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. 95 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
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9. Prep surface of resin and extant clear coat by scarifying and apply a new UV- resistant clear coat over all bench seat surfaces. Multiple layers will likely be required.
a. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the new coating as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to a “clean” space. b. Please note that scarifying the yellowed gel coat may not remove all damaged resin and there may still be some color variation between gel coat surfaces that have and have not been exposed to strong UV light for a prolonged period of time.
10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 9,350.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry surfaces.
5. If sacrificial wa x was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
96 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
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Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for G. Crum
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 26th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick translucent gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with a raised fin across the center that somewhat delineates the seating into two separate areas. There are recessed curb forms as well as raised ovoid forms. The overall color is beige with the legs appearing a more golden yellow than the top of the bench, which has a milky white pearlescent coating. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted to a low curb between the bench and planter area to the west.
Condition:
Overall, the b ench appears to be in fair condition with no cracks noted through the substrate that would be lie a potential structural issue. There is a sizable loss at the north-west corner of the north leg of the bench where it meets the surrounding pavement. Additional material losses were noted throughout the raised thin element down the center that bisects the bench.
Horizontal cracks in the clear gel coat were noted at the south leg, below the sealant joint.
There are hairline scratches throughout the bench coating. The coloration of the milky white pearlescent coating is not even throughout the surface of the bench seat. At the edges, raised oval forms, and localized areas at the north end of the bench, the coating appears thinner and the surface in these areas more golden yellow like the legs. Sticker adhesive residue as well as white ghosting of what may be graffiti tagging were noted on the legs and underside of the bench seat.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 97 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
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Co
mments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a steep slope hill covered with plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is within 200’-300’ of the bench. The bench is in full sun throughout the day. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. There do not appear to be any sprinklers in the nearby planter that overspray the bench. The work is highly accessible to the public. It is not spot lit at night, but there appears to be ambient light from nearby streetlamps and buildings. There do not appear to be any security cameras near the bench to further help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate interaction with the general public. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Damp clean surfaces with a solution of filtered water and a conservation grade detergent to remove atmospheric soiling.
a. Rinse with distilled water and dry.
3. Remove any extant accretions and transfer marks with organic solvents.
4. Route cracks with fine rotary tools.
5. Patch substrate losses with clear resin mixed with sand aggregate to blend with original surfaces.
6. In-fill areas of missing coating, cracks, and “bug holes” with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on t he fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
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7. Polish resin surfaces with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of fine superficial scratches.
8. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
9. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color.
e. Apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments. f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 12,775.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain and combination lock. Generator if there are no power outlets nearby.
Recom
mended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
99 CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY RLA Conse
rvation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench Donated by Helaine & Dick Whilden and Family Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 31st Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork is comprised of a bench made of glass fiber-reinforced plastic, with a thick gel coating. The legs are distinct from the bench seat, and the seam is filled with a solid-colored caulking material, effectively tying the components together. The bench is sculpted in an arc with both recessed curb forms and raised ovoid forms. The predominant color is beige, with the legs showcasing a more golden yellow tone compared to the bench's top surface. The bench seat has an additional translucent film applied over the gel coat. This film is milkier, but also has blue pigment within the coating. As the applied coating settled on the surface, it notably concentrated in concave areas, making them appear bluer in appearance. This bluish hue is al so evident along the bench's perimeter and sides. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted to a low curb between the bench and a grassy lawn to the west.
Condition:
While the bench appears to be structurally sound, the surface condition is fair. Upon examination, a pool of water was observed on the top surface of the south end. The pooling area exhibits delamination of the thin tinted coating, exposing the lighter golden surface below. Mineral deposits in a tideline pattern are visible in this area, indicating that the surface is routinely wet. Similar delamination and discoloration are evident on the north end surface of the seat, indicating that the bench is exposed to significant water in this area as well. The joints between the bench feet and pavement were also wet even though it had not rained at all that day. Mineral deposits are also present around the base of both bench feet.
Though not visible, there must be sprinklers in the grassy lawn to the west of the bench that overspray onto the bench regularly. Some of the water may have gotten below the gel coat into the aggregate substrate. If so, the m oisture likely cannot be removed and the areas will always appear more saturated than surrounding surfaces. The east end of the bench exhibited 100
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large black scuff marks and splotches of brighter yellow discoloration. There are additional areas of tinted clear coat loss around the perimeter of the bench seat in addition to the broader areas at the north and south ends. In areas where the coating is failing, the bench's texture becomes noticeably rougher. On the west side of the bench, a sizable crack is observed where the caulking is located, with a piece of gum attached to it. Additionally, there is a considerable buildup of dirt and debris on both the top and bottom surfaces of the bench. The raised border and text of the dedication plaque have discolored from gold to dark brown with weathering and oxidation.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: None at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a grassy lawn (presumably with sprinklers), a two-lane bicycle path a nd then the beach.
The ocean is approximately 200’ – 300’ from the bench. The work appears to be in shade in the morning due to nearby buildings and in full sun in the afternoon. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. Though not visible during inspection, it is assumed there are sprinklers in the grassy lawn that routinely hit the bench with overspray.
The bench is highly accessible to the general public as evidenced by its surface condition.
The work is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient lighting from nearby streetlamps and buildings. There do not appear to be any security cameras in the area around the bench.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements:
Re-direct sprinklers away from the bench so they do not overspray the artwork. Ideally, the lawn should be changed over to drip irrigation.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
On-site treatment will require security fencing with a privacy screen to mitigate interaction with the general public during the various treatment processes and cure times.
Treatment Priority: 2 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
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5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents.
7. Remove loose, flaking clear coat down to sound material.
8. Polish/sand surfaces to remove mineral deposit build-up, but also feather edges of extant tinted clear coat with areas where clear coat was removed.
9. Route and fill crack at top of sealant between the sealant and bench seat.
10. Re-coat bench seat with a new UV-stable clear coat that is somewhat milky, but also has blue pigment. Multiple layers will be required. a. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
11. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
12. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means , taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $12,775.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and w ash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
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Es
timated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
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Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for J. Joiner
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin, cementitious sealant?
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 25th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good X Fair Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over the lower surfaces. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam between them filled with a hard, solid light blue sealant. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with recessed swirl and curved forms throughout the top of the bench element. The topmost surfaces of the bench appear to be natural sand in color with some blue pigment mixed in with the resin at the lower surfaces. The lower surfaces are smoother in texture than the upper surfaces of the bench seat, which does not appear to have as much gel coat coverage throughout. There are also more open “bug holes” throughout the bench seat surface. A sm all, square bronze plaque is mounted to the low curb to the west, between the bench and the planter area.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be in good general condition with no cracks or losses that may indicate a larger structural problem. It is unclear whether the ombré effect between the top of the bench seat, the sides, and the legs is intentional or if this smooth tinted resin coating/gel coat at the top surfaces has weathered and eroded away over time with prolonged UV exposure and with public use. It is unknown if this green effect is what was originally intended or if the resin was originally blue in color and has yellowed with prolonged UV exposure and weathering. There is sand, gum, and other localized accretions on the top of the bench seat. The general surface color of the top of the bench appears somewhat darker than comparable benches, but this may be due to the slightly tinted resin binder. The bronze dedication plaque appears to be secure. The raised text and border have shifted from golden in color to darker brown with swaths of blue-green corrosion due to oxidation/weathering.
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Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a steep hill covered with grass and plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. Sprinklers were not visible in the adjacent planter area that could overspray onto the bench. The work is highly accessible to the public as evidenced by the surface wear. The bench is in full sun throughout the day. There is some ambient light from nearby streetlamps to help deter vandalism. No security cameras were observed in the vicinity of the bench.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with the public as materials cure. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Install a security fence with privacy screen and secure with a chain and combination lock. Provide combination code to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
a. Damp rinse with distilled water and dry.
5. Remove gum and other accretion residues with proprietary solvents that will not damage the surface of the bench.
6. Apply an additional layer of gel coat over the seat portion of the bench to fill in “bug holes” and provide additional material protection over the sanded substrate comparable to other benches in the series.
a. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
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7. Polish resin surface with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of any fine superficial scratches.
8. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
9. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 8,275.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Securi
ty fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
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Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for J.W. Keever
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 30th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair Poor X
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with curve and swirl recessed forms throughout the top of the bench.
Overall, the color is blue with a greenish tint in some areas. The rounded edge of the bench seat is a brighter more intense blue. A small, square bronze dedication plaque has been mounted to the low curb between the bench and a planter area to the west.
Condition:
Overall, the bench is in relatively poor condition. At the north and there is a stepped crack in the GFRC that measures at least six inches (6”) long. There is a small plant growing out of this crack, indicating it has been there for some time. At nearly all of the curve recesses there are cracks in the gel coat that likely extend into or through the GFRC as well. This also means that water has likely entered the center of the bench during rain events, which could lead to corrosion of any internal supports. We believe this to be the case as there are sprinkler heads in the lawn in front of the bench and pooling water noted at the time of assessment. At several cracks water was observed emanating from the crack, which indicates that the clearcoat has been breached. Since there is no sign of blunt impact on the bench seat, we can assume with some certainty that the crack is due to the expansive force of corrosion somewhere at the internal armature of the bench. Throughout the bench seat the gel coat is very hazy and milky in appearance due to prolonged UV exposure and degradation. There are extensive hairline and more prominent scratches throughout this upper surface. While the
edge coating is vibrant blue and still retains its sheen, the skyward facing surface of the bench and the legs have a somewhat green tint to them in addition to the milky haze. It is unclear whether this is intentional or if the resin has yellowed overtime again due to 107
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prolonged UV exposure. Scratches, chewing gum accretions, and white transfer marks were also noted on the bench legs. The bronze dedication plaque appears to be stable in its location. The raised border and text have discolored from gold to dark brown with swaths of blue green corrosion.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a row of roses with the drip irrigation, a grassy lawn with visible sprinkler heads followed by a sloping hill with succulents, a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. The bench is highly accessible to the public as evidenced by its condition. The work appears to be in full sun throughout the day and is routinely hit with s
prinkler overspray. The bench is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient lighting from nearby streetlamps. There are no visible security cameras near the bench to further help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management:
Because the crack in the bench is stepped and could be sharp, someone could scratch themselves on the exposed crack edge.
Recommended Site Improvements:
Sprinkler heads should be removed and switched to full drip irrigation or switch to hand watering for the lawn. However, this may be private property and not City owned.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
None at this time
Treatment Priority: 1 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
Due to the severity of degradation, treatment is not recommended. If the city wishes to retain this particular piece it should be re-fabricated but using more stable materials.
Estimated Treatment Costs: N/A
Estimated Special Equipment Required: None at this time.
Recommended Maintenance:
Due to the severity of degradation, ongoing maintenance is not recommended. If the city wishes to retain this particular piece it should be re-fabricated but using more stable materials.
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E
stimated Maintenance Costs: N/A
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: N/A
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Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for L & L Johnson
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 9th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with curve and swirl recessed forms throughout the top of the bench.
Overall, the color is a natural golden sand color. The seat bench is lighter and has a milky, pearlescent quality. A small, square bronze dedication plaque has been mounted to the low curb between the bench and a planter area to the west.
Condition:
While structurally sound the visual and aesthetic condition of the bench is fair. There are multiple losses in the applied clear coat t hroughout the top of the bench as well as “bug hole” openings from the original casting. Hairline cracks were also noted in this coating in the seating area. Most appear to be just through the gel coat, but one at the north end appears wider than the rest and may extend down into the substrate. Fine atmospheric soiling has settled in the cracks, making them more pronounced. Countless hairline scratches throughout the bench surface have dulled the gloss overall. Small perforations in the coating along the seam of the bench are starting to form on the east side. There are black transfer accretions as well as gum on the edges and undersides of the bench. The dedication plaque appears securely mounted. The raised text and border are shifting from gold to dark brown in color due to weathering/oxidation. Blue green corrosion is starting to form in localized areas.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 110
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Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a drop off to a planter area followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. The work appears to be in full sun throughout the day. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. No sprinklers were observed that could overspray and hit the bench. The work is highly accessible to the general public as evidenced by its condition. The work is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient lighting from nearby streetlamps and buildings. No security cameras were visible in the area to further help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with t he general public.
Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents.
7. Route and infill cracks using conservation grade epoxy, letting it cure per the manufacturer’s specifications.
8. In-fill areas of missing coating along the repaired cracks as well as other superficial losses and “bug holes” with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be 111
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mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
9. Polish resin surface with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of any fine superficial scratches.
10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
E
stimated Treatment Costs: $ 12,775.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
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Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled – Strand Bench donated by William and Lynn Zeman Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 20th street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a very thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form. There are recessed curb forms as well as raised ovoid forms.
The overall color is a bright blue, though the legs are not as vibrant as the seat . A small, square, lacquered bronze dedication plaque is embedded in the low curb between the bench and planter area to the west.
Condition:
The bench is currently in good structural condition. However, the surface condition is fair.
The seat is experiencing delamination and active peeling of an applied translucent coating, making it susceptible for pedestrians to continue to peel off this layer. Unlike other benches, this one appears to have blue pigment integrated into the sanded resin matrix, giving the exposed substrate and more green/blue appearance. The more vibrant translucent blue coating has been applied overtop and is approximately 1/16” thick. Delamination is primarily concentrated in the middle of the bench seat, with additional losses noted towards the south middle end. Notably, the east end of the bench exhibits severe scuff marks, resulting in white, red, and black transfer markings, possibly from skateboarders. Surface scratching is prevalent throughout the seat and is particularly noticeable on the northeast corner as well as a large scratch on the top south end. Although these scratches are prevalent, the cast resin substrate below is not damaged. The horizontal joint encircling the bench's perimeter, connecting the top of the seat to the legs, appears to have been recently treated.
This area exhibits a slightly different color than both the seat and legs, and it lacks the same thicker coating found elsewhere on the bench. On the north leg facing west, there is a large crack fill that appears black, accompanied by blue markings on the inner area of the same 113
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leg resembling paint. Extensive dirt and spiderwebs are present on top and around the base of the bench. The lacquer on the dedication plaque is failing in the recessed area, exhibiting blanching as it delaminates from the surface. Where the lacquer has been completely lost on the raised text and border, the color has shifted from gold to dark brown with blue green and red cuprite corrosion taking hold.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition:
An additional translucent blue coating has been applied throughout the surface of the bench.
It is unclear if this occurred during or shortly after fabrication or if this was a later intervention in response to adverse conditions occurring at the bench. There are also traces of a crack fill as well as new caulking/sealant around the premier joint where the seat meets the legs. It is unknown if all of these treatments were done consecutively or at different periods of time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a steep hill covered with plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach.
The ocean is within 200’ -300’ of the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. There do not appear to be any sprinklers nearby that may overspray the bench. The work is highly accessible to the public as evidenced by its condition. The bench is in full sun throughout the day. It is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient lighting from nearby buildings and streetlamps. There are no visible security cameras in the area to further help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management:
The delamination of the top coating is creating sharp shards and edges which can be harmful to pedestrians interacting with the bench.
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with the public. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure wit h
chai
n and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling. 114
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4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conser
vation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions on legs with organic solvents.
7. Mechanically remove applied translucent blue top coat from the upper surfaces of the bench seat down to the sanded resin substrate.
a. Potentially utilize the horizontal edge seam as a break line. b. Leaving coating on may lead to additional failure in the future. Also, tryi ng
t
o blend a translucent tinted coating with one that is partially extant will result in surface blotchiness and differences in color and opacity as they are l
ayered over one another.
8. Lightly scarify/prep sanded resin substrate and apply a new transparent blue gel coat finish over the bench seat
a. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can onl y be
m
itigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
9. Pol
ish extant resin surfaces with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and m
echanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of any fine su
perficial scratches.
10. I
f deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin su
rfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. M
itigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not
to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a l
ight golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina devel
opment with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax f
ormula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 12,775.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
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Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital phot
ography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any condi
tions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conser
vation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench f
ollowing general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
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Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled – Strand Bench for Matthew Mcafee
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 19th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair Poor X
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. There is also a seam vertically below the sitting areas from one leg to the other. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form. There are recessed curb forms as well as raised ovoid forms. The overall color of the piece is a teal blue color with the tan sand granules visible through the translucent blue surface throughout the bench. There is a small, square bronze dedication plaque mounted to the low curb to the west of the bench.
Condition:
Overall, the bench is in poor condition and there are some doubts about its long -term structural stability. Underneath the bench, a significant portion of the material has been intentionally cut out (approximately 3” square), exposing the bench interior and revealing the separation between the two top layers that form the seat. The absence of this large chunk has led to the development of extensive cracks radiating out from around the edges of this opening and extend across the underside of the bench and down the legs. The sizable opening has resulted in the accumulation of spiderwebs, dirt, and debris. This void poses a potential risk for issues such as bug nests, biological growth, and mold due to its dark and moist environment. If there is any internal metal reinforcement, these are now more exposed to the elements, which can lead to corrosion and weaking of these supports. Along the edges of the bench, scuffs and whitish-blue transfer marks are evident. These marks correspond to the joints connecting the top and bottom pieces forming the bench's seats and may be caused by skateboarders. On the north leg, there is a large crack facing west, accompanied by another nearby crack that has been filled during a past repair. Additionally, there is a sticker on the s
ame leg facing east. Throughout the west-facing sides of the bench legs, mineral 117
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deposits from past sprinkler overspray have accumulated on the surfaces, leaving a milky white haze. The seating area of the bench exhibits signs of extensive wear, displaying a lighter bluish-haze color. This surface area also shows a few unidentified accretions and "bug holes," which is the result of air bubbles during the original curing of the medium.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition:
There may have been fills performed throughout the piece but the details of when and for what reason are unknown.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a flat platform paved with stone that leads to a steep hill covered with plants followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is within approximately 200’-300’ of the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. However, the mineral deposit build-up on the west bench legs and significant cracking/damage indicates that there were likely sprinklers close by in the recent past that routinely oversprayed the bench. The work is highly accessible to the general public and receives a lot of interaction.
The bench is in full sun throughout the day. It is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient lighting from nearby streetlamps. There are no visible security cameras in the area to h elp further deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management:
Due to the extensive cracking throughout the suspended/arched center of the bench and not knowing what type or extend of internal armature there may be, it is possible that the bench could crack further under the weight of people sitting on it, resulting in injury. It should be de-accessioned and removed as soon as possible.
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
None at this time
Treatment Priority: 1 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
No treatment is recommended at this time. The structural integrity of the bench has been compromised and it does not make sense to try and repair it at this time. If the City wishes, the bench should be re-fabricated with more stable and robust materials.
Estimated Treatment Costs: N/A
Estimated Special Equipment Required: None at this time. 118
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Recommended Maintenance:
Maintenance of the bench is not recommended. Due to how degraded the artwork is and that it is structurally unsound, it should be de-installed and de-accessioned.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: N/A
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: N/A
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Examined By: Christina Varvi
Examined On: 11/9/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for M. Zisette
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 4th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with curve and swirl recessed forms throughout the top of the bench.
There is a raised, curved fin that bisects the bench seat, creating two distinct seating areas.
Overall, the color is a natural golden sand color. The seat bench is lighter and has a milky, pearlescent quality. A small, square bronze dedication plaque has been mounted to the low curb between the bench and a planter area to the west.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be s tructurally sound. The surface condition is fair. Hairline cracking is forming at the vertical edge of the seat element along almost the entirety of the west side as well as the north side of the bench, likely along a casting seam. There is a small loss at the north side of the seating element. Black transfer marks are visible on the south end of the bench and the recesses of the seating elements have moderate accumulations of sand. Localized areas of other staining and discoloration were also noted in the coating. The raised text and border of the bronze dedication plaque have discolored from gold to dark brown with swaths of blue green corrosion.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar. 120
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Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. There are planters to the north and south with large grass plantings. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. It is not clear if there are sprinklers in either planter that overspray the bench. The work appears to be in shade in the morning due to nearby buildings and in full sun in the afternoon. It is highly accessible to the public. The work is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient lighting from nearby streetlamps. There do not appear to be any security cameras in the vicinity.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended S ite Improvements: None at this time
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with the public. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution phot ography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents.
7. Route and infill perimeter/seam cracks using conservation grade epoxy, letting it cure per the manufacturer’s specifications.
8. In-fill areas of missing coating along the repaired edge/seam as well as other superficial losses with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as t he material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
9. Polish resin surface with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of any fine superficial scratches.
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10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 10,175.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maint enance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
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Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled- Strand Bench for Norman “Idol” Pearson Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 27th street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thin clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant different from the color of the bench. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with recessed curved shapes throughout the top of the bench. The overall color of the bench is a teal blue. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is embedded in the low curb to the west of the bench, before a planter area.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be structurally sound. The surface condition is fair. There is a crack along the edge of the seat at the southeast end that appears to extend into the substrate and is slightly stepped. There are small, localized losses of the blue tinted resin at the outer perimeter of the seat, exposing the golden sand grains below. At the skyward-facing surfaces of the seat, the resin has been worn down unevenly, with more wear and exposed golden/tan aggregate exposed at the north and south ends. Where the blue resin coating is less worn, it appears to have discolored over time, likely from a combination of prolonged UV exposure and degradation as well as public interaction. In these areas the coating has yellowed, giving the surface an overall blue/green hue. The combined effects is a very mottled, blotchy appearance throughout the bench seat surface. At some point, a thin clear coating was applied over presumably the entire bench surface. The coating is largely missing from the top surface, but is present throughout the lower half of the seat and both legs. Along these surfaces, the coating is blanching, lifting, and flaking on all sides. There is some separation and deterioration of the sealant at the bench feet and the surrounding pavement. White mineral deposit accretions on the legs indicate that it is likely hit with sprinkler overspray on a routine basis. The bronze dedication plaque exhibits surface staining as well as 123
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discoloration of the raised border and text, which have discolored from gold to dark brown with swaths of blue green corrosion throughout.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition:
It is unknown if the thin clear coat was applied during the original fabrication or later on to help slow surface degradation. We assume that it was applied later, but unclear as to when or what product was used. The caulking around the bench feet is also likely not original.
Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a planter with tall rose bushes that leads to a parking lot and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. Due to the presence of mineral deposits on the bench surfaces, we believe there are sprinklers in the planter that overspray the bench. The bench appears to be in shade in the early mornings due to nearby buildings and in both full and partial shade in the afternoon. Rose bushes provide more shade throughout the day compared to other benches. It is highly accessible to the public. The work is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps. There are no visible security cameras in the area to help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements:
Ensure that the rose bushes are frequently trimmed back to guarantee they do not overhang the bench. Re-direct any sprinklers away from the bench surfaces or switch to drip irrigation.
Acces
s/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with the public. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chai
n and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conser
vation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents. 124
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7. Route and infill perimeter/seam cracks using conservation grade epoxy, letting it cure per the manufacturer’s specifications.
8. Sand bench surfaces to remove extant thin, clear coating as it is actively failing.
9. Re- apply a clear gel coat layer throughout the bench seat to provide added t
hickness and protection for the substrate. Decide with the City if the coating sh
ould be tinted blue and if so, to what extent.
a. If th
e work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be m
itigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to a “clean” space.
10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin su
rfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. M
itigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not
to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a l
ight golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina devel
opment with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax f
ormula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 12,775.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maintenance with a written report and high-resolution digital phot
ography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any condi
tions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conser
vation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfibers
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench f
ollowing general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
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Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench donated by friends and family of Deborah Nanney Raguse Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 34th Street
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form. There are recessed curb forms as well as raised ovoid forms. The overall color is beige with the legs appearing a more golden yellow than the top of the bench, which has a milky, pearlescent appearance. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is mounted to the low curb to the west of the bench, before the planter.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be structurally sound. The surface condition is fa ir. A relatively large crack was noted at the west side of the bench that seems to extend down into the substrate. A few hairline cracks are visible in the seat gel coat, between one of the concave design elements. Fine atmospheric soiling has settled in the cracks making them more pronounced. Small coating losses and cracking was also noted around the perimeter of the bench seat, where the upper and lower sections are joined. There are also “bug holes” in the gel coat from the original casting. The milky, pearlescent appearance seems to be a thinly applied coating over top of the clear gel coat layer. This coating is missing in localized areas, exposing the darker, more yellow sand surface below, which is comparable to the finish of the legs. Other applied surface stains and soiling give the seat surface a very mottled appearance. The bronze dedication plaque exhibits darkening of the original patina on the raised border and text along with blue green corrosion.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 126
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Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible, but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a planter area followed by a tw o-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’ – 300’ from the bench. The work appears to be in shade in the morning due to nearby buildings and in full sun in the afternoon. The re are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. There do not appear to be any sprinkle rs in the nearby planter area that overspray the bench. The work is highly accessible to the general public. It is not spot lit at night but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps. There do not appear to be any security cameras in proximity to the bench to help deter vandalism.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Treatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chain and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents.
7. Route and infill perimeter/seam cracks and surface cracks using conservation grade epoxy, letting it cure per the manufacturer’s specifications.
8. In-fill areas of missing coating along the repaired edge/seam as well as other superficial losses with tinted resin to blend the areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age differently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can only be mitigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
9. Polish resin surface with an automotive clear coat polishing compound and mechanical polisher to increase shine and reduce appearance of any fine superficial scratches.
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10. If deemed necessary and appropriate, apply a sacrificial wax coating over the resin surfaces to help mitigate some deleterious effects of outdoor weathering.
11. Bronze Plaque:
a. Clean in same manner as sculptural bench.
b. Mitigate corrosion through mechanical and chemical means, taking care not to mar original patina.
c. Polish raised letters and border to expose “free” copper. d. Heat plaque with a propane torch and patinate raised letters and border to a light golden color. Once desired color is achieved, arrest patina development with distilled water.
e. Re- heat plaque surface and apply carnauba and microcrystalline paste wax formula developed by the Getty Conservation Institute for high UV, heat, and marine environments.
f. Allow wax to cool and buff.
g. Apply two (2) cold, sacrificial coats of carnauba-based paste wax. i. After each coat, allow wax to dry and buff to appropriate sheen.
Estimated Treatment Costs: $ 10,175.00
Estimated Special Equipment Required:
Security fence with privacy screen, chain, and combination lock. Portable generator (if there are no power outlets nearby) and machine polisher.
Recommended Maintenance:
1. Document maint enance with a written report and high-resolution digital photography. Provide a Dropbox link to all maintenance images as well as note any conditions that should be addressed in a more in-depth treatment in the future.
2. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conservation-grade detergent.
4. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
5. If sacrificial wax was applied during more in-depth treatment, re-apply wax to bench following general cleaning.
Estimated Maintenance Costs: $ 880.00
Recommended Frequency of Maintenance: Biennially
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A Conservation, LLC. • June 2024
Examined By: Damiana Yousef
Examined On: 11/10/23
Artist: Stacy Dukes
Title: Untitled - Strand Bench for “Nike”
Date: Client to provide information
Materials: GFRP, resin coating, bronze
Dimensions: 18” H x 36” W x 96” L
Location: Strand and 3rd St.
General Condition: Excellent Good Fair X Poor
Description:
The artwork consists of a bench that appears to be made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a thick clear gel coat over top. The legs are separate from the bench seat with the seam filled with a hard solid colored sealant. The gelcoat ties everything together. The bench is generally shaped in an arc form with recessed curved shapes throughout the top of the bench. A deep recess in the shape of a paw was noted in the top at the northwest end of the bench. The color of the bench is generally golden yellow throughout. A small, square bronze dedication plaque is embedded in the low concrete curb to the west of the bench.
Condition:
Overall, the bench appears to be structurally sound. The surface condition is fair. There are multiple areas of gel coat loss along the east edge of the bench seat, likely due to abrasion.
There is an extensive network of cracks in the gel coat t hroughout the bench seat, though they do not appear to extend down into the substrate. Fine atmospheric soiling has settled in the cracks, making them appear more prominent. There are also many hairline scratches throughout the coating, dulling the surface overall. The coloration of the bench various throughout all surfaces. On the seat element and on the west-facing surfaces of the legs, the surface appears milky and hazy. Elsewhere on the bench seat, the surface looks more saturated and darker than adjacent surfaces. The raised text and border of the bronze dedication plaque has discolored from gold to dark brown with blue green and red cuprite corrosion throughout.
Previous Conservation Treatments or Condition: Not available at this time. 129
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Comments on Mounting:
The method of mounting is not visible but is likely some type of below grade footing into which the bench is anchored with pins and epoxy or mortar.
Comments on Location:
The bench is located along The Strand which is a dedicated pedestrian walkway. To the west is a narrow swath of sand followed by a two-lane bicycle path and then the beach. The ocean is approximately 200’-300’ from the bench. There are no overhanging tree branches or encroaching plants. There is a watering station immediately south of the bench that has two water fountains for people, one for dogs, and a small shower to rinse one’s feet. It is unknown if overspray from this feature hits the bench. The work is highly accessible to the public. The bench is in full sun throughout the day. It is not spot lit at night, but there is ambient light from nearby streetlamps and buildings. There are no visible security cameras in the vicinity of the bench.
Comments on Safety/Risk Management: None at this time.
Recommended Site Improvements: None at this time.
Access/Other Considerations Required for Treatment or Maintenance:
Treatment would require security fencing to mitigate interaction with the public. Otherwise, the bench would need to be deinstalled for offsite treatment.
Treatment Priority: 3 Curatorial Priority:
Tr
eatment Recommendations:
1. Document treatment with a written report and high-resolution photography.
Provide recommendations for routine maintenance as well as a Dropbox link to all treatment images.
2. Erect security fence around perimeter of bench with privacy screen. Secure with chai
n and combination lock. Provide combination to the City.
3. Dry-brush surfaces to remove loose particulate matter and surface soiling.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wash with a solution of distilled water and a conser
vation-grade detergent.
5. Rinse with distilled water to remove detergent residue and dry with microfiber cloths.
6. Remove or reduce extant accretions with organic solvents.
7. Route cracks in the clear coat to remove embedded dirt.
8. In-fill areas of missing coating along edges and top of seat with tinted resin to bl end
t
he areas of loss with the surrounding surfaces.
a. Please note that the material used for infilling the missing resin will age di
fferently than the original because they are different ages and chemical compositions. The fills will also be discernible up to a certain distance. b. If the work is performed on site, it is likely that dust and atmospheric soiling will settle on the fill surfaces as the material cures. This can onl y be
m
itigated by de-installing the bench and bringing it to an indoor “clean” space.
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CITY OF MANHATTAN BEACH PUBLIC ART CONSERVATION SURVEY
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A Conservation, LLC. • June 2024