News — Morley Gallery

The Restoration of the Martin Froy Murals

Two mid-century murals painted by the artist Martin Froy inside the Waterloo Centre’s Emma Cons Hall have been fully restored - after weeks of careful work by internationally renowned conservators Plowden and Smith.

The restoration work involved careful cleaning and retouching the two murals which measure 57 feet long by 8 feet tall. Titled “Sun Up and Sun Down” the abstract works evoke the sun rising and setting on generations of Morley students.

Jack Davy, manager of Morley’s Permanent Art Collection said:

‘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. ”

The team employed meticulous techniques to preserve the murals’ original character while ensuring their longevity.  The conservation work was led by Federica Traversa,   Senior Paintings Conservator at Plowden and Smith. Frederica said;  

“The project was particularly exciting because it was quite nice to see the reaction of people while we were working. It's also quite rewarding to know that these pieces that will be enjoyed by many people during the years performing all sorts of art form in this room.”

Jack Davy, Morley Gallery Manager said;

“ We are delighted with the restored Froy murals which are integral to the design of the newly refurbished Emma Cons Hall. The hall is now set for another 70 years of orchestral performances, dance recitals, film screenings, and all the other myriad things that take place in this space and everyone who comes can enjoy these murals in their original glory”.