Benjamin Dominguez Conservation Project

What is Art Conservation?

Art Conservation is a profession devoted to the care of art and items of cultural significance through research, examination, documentation, treatment, preventive care, and education.

Who is Conserving the Sculptures?

A group of conservators, technicians, and apprentices led by Site & Studio Conservation are working together to conserve the sculptures. The Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, in collaboration with the First Supervisorial District and Department of Parks and Recreation, are funding and managing the project to ensure the sculptures are preserved.

What is the State of the Artworks?

While the sculptures are generally structurally sound—due to ongoing conservation and maintenance—they exhibit significant wear and tear to the painted surface. The conditions observed are due to the fact that the objects were created to be interacted with by children and are popular play structures. The regular physical interactions have caused abrasion, paint loss, loss of concrete, and graffiti.

What are the Conservators Doing?

To restore and preserve the sculptures, the conservation team is executing the following actions:

• Cleaning and removal of graffiti.
• Stabilization and strengthening of original concrete using a consolidant.
• Application of concrete repair materials.
• Restoration of the painted surface.
• Application of an anti-graffiti coating.