Morley College London begins conservation of iconic Martin Froy murals

Morley College London is proud to announce the start of a major conservation project to safeguard the celebrated Martin Froy murals inside the historic Emma Cons Hall – the main performance space inside Morley’s Waterloo Centre for Adult Education. These vibrant abstract works, ‘Sun Up’ and ‘Sun Down’, created by the influential British painter Martin Froy in the mid-20th century, are an integral part of the college’s artistic heritage. 

Measuring 57 feet long by 8 feet tall, the conservation of the two murals is being undertaken by Plowden & Smith, internationally renowned specialists in the restoration of fine art and historic interiors. Their team will employ meticulous techniques to preserve the murals’ original character while ensuring their longevity. 

Dr Jack Davy, Manager of Morley’s Permanent Art Collection, said:
“The Martin Froy murals are an extraordinary part of Morley’s history.  The centrepiece of the Emma Cons Hall, they have been enjoyed by generations of adult learners. We’re delighted that we’ve appointed Plowden and Smith, highly experienced, highly professional, London based conservation company, to preserve the murals for future generations of Morley students to enjoy.”    “The concept was Sun Up and Sun Down – the sun rising and setting on generations of Morley students. What’s powerful about these murals is their use of colour and texture in a mid-twentieth century fashion. They really speak to that era when Morley was being reconstructed post war and the hope that came with rebuilding this space for the community. ”

Rachael Smith, Senior Project Manager at Plowden & Smith, added:
“Plowden & Smith are delighted to be working with Morley College to conserve Martin Froy’s Sun Up and Sun Down murals, helping ensure these vibrant works remain part of the College’s creative community and continue to inspire students and visitors for generations to come. These murals hold significant historic and artistic value, and are intrinsically connected to their architectural context. We’re proud to support their long-term preservation in situ within the Emma Cons Hall, where they can be appreciated as the artist intended. Plowden & Smith share Morley College’s commitment to public access to the arts and education. Through this project, we hope to contribute to Morley College’s ongoing celebration of art, learning, and community.”

Martin Froy
Martin Froy (1926–2017) was a leading figure in British art, known for his bold use of colour and abstract forms. His murals in Emma Cons Hall reflect the optimism and innovation of post-war Britain, making them an invaluable part of the nation’s cultural history. Sun Up and Sun Down were painted in 1958 for the rebuilt college, following extensive wartime damage.   Froy won a competition to paint the murals which was judged in the mid fifties by Sir Anthony Blunt, who was Surveyor of the Queen’s Pictures.

The conservation process is expected to conclude in early 2026. During this time, Emma Cons Hall will remain a vibrant space for learning and performance.