Theatres are public spaces designed to accommodate large numbers of people for purposes of entertainment. Therefore, if a historic theatre has decorative artwork and/or fine art murals, there are certain considerations that may help to maintain the stability of the artwork so that it may continue to be appreciated by the admiring public. Most historic movie theatres were constructed in the early 1900s but opera houses and playhouses can be much older. The task of stewardship of these buildings, the decoration, and art can be a formidable responsibility. However, learning about the materials of the construction both structural and decorative will dispel most maintenance fears. Uncertainty can be the most crippling reality when dealing with restoration and conservation. The more you are in touch with the construction and in continual conversation with conservation and restoration experts, the more you will be naturally in tune with the building’s requirements inside and out.
This is particularly true when discussing care of decoration and murals. The structural stability of the substrate is first and foremost when it comes to long term care. Maintaining consistent and favorable environmental controls is key to ensuring a long term stability of fine art and decoration. Preventing water intrusion and UV damage will not only preserve the artwork but the interior as a whole for generations to follow. The effects of age may manifest in the paintings as a result of atmospheric conditions, deterioration of materials, or other. For specific unknown issues with the artwork, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with experts who may offer conservation and restoration suggestions as needed. The following are a few suggestions for maintaining fine art decoration and murals in historic theatres:
1) Maintain Structural Stability
If the building envelope remains sealed and the structural engineering and substrate materials strong, the artwork and decoration are immediately at lower risk. Structural stability can fail due to age, water damage, trauma to the construction, rot, and a variety of other factors. If you are unsure or concerned for the structural stability, you can carry out a Historic Building Conditions Assessment to determine and document the construction.
Stadium Theatre after restoration
2) Maintain Stable Environmental Controls
Maintaining stable environmental controls relates specifically to keeping a stable interior temperature and humidity but also preventing water intrusion and UV damage. Since theatres are open to the public often offering food and drink, it is also important that areas are cleaned regularly.
3) Mitigate Traffic in Areas of Artwork
Where possible, it is a good idea to prevent or limit high volume of traffic or contact from the public around the artwork. For murals and decoration in hallways and staircases, it may be difficult to control. Using the correct varnishes and other protective materials will help to prevent damage to artwork and decoration in high traffic areas.
4) Familiarize Yourself with the History and Material Make-Up of the Art and Decoration
As mentioned above, the more you know about the interior, the art, and decoration, the more confident you will be in caring for the work. Studying the building or city archives will likely provide textural and photographic information regarding the history. If you are interested in understanding the physical construction and condition of the art and decoration, you may benefit from a historic paint analysis, plaster conditions survey, and/or conservation testing depending on the artistic features within the theatre.
Stadium Theatre decorative artwork
5) Get to Know & Consult a reputable Conservation/Restoration Expert
Do not hesitate to reach out to industry experts with questions. Developing an effective maintenance plan is crucial to the preservation of the interior. Experts in conservation and restoration may be able to provide maintenance tips specific to your interior to ensure long term stability.
Please note that these are general suggestions. With any specific questions regarding the maintenance of historic theatres, please contact us directly at the Canning Office. There are many examples of beautiful, historic theatres which have been well maintained over the years with limited intervention. Addressing building conditions and care head on is key to preservation.
