Thank you so much to everyone who came along and enjoyed the Painting Restoration Workshops we held this week at St Marie’s.

The workshops were delivered by the magnificent Silvano Cioci Faux (from North West Murals). I will be posting a few more articles about Silvano on the blog. One where he explains the techniques he uses whilst restoring paintings and another on how he first got involved in the restoration business.

I’m delighted to report that both of the workshops were “sold out”. Silvano was (in my opinion) a superb host and the feedback we received was extremely positive.

The attendees were quizzed before and after the workshop. The questions beforehand gauged how interested they were in Painting Restoration, local heritage and St Marie’s itself. I’m pleased to report that everyone was more interested (or still as interested) in all of the above afterwards. Some attendees had said their interest or excitement was already at 10 out of 10 so they hadn’t left themselves much room for improvement!

Here are the comments we received:

– It was very informative.
-Silvano was very easy to understand. He answered our questions intelligently and was a very nice man.
– I’m amazed by what I learned. I can’t believe it’s real gold in the paintings.
– It’s amazing what they can do!
– Brilliant. I want more workshops.
– It was fascinating. I look forward to seeing the film.
– Really interesting.
– Today was fascinating, interesting and informative.

Here are some photos from the workshops:

The painting (from the altar at St Marie’s) that Silvano was working on. You can see the difference between the half of the halo that Silvano had restored and the half he had yet to clean.

Roger, Tommy, Billy and John listen intently to Silvano.

Silvano outlines his work to Peter, Tony, Louise and Bev.

The guys watch on as Silvano gives the halo it’s original shine back. Note the difference also at the bottom of the painting (which Silvano had already restored).

Workshop 1 Team Photo: Roger, Billy, Silvano, John & Tommy.

Silvano explains the tools/solutions he uses to clean the paintings. You can’t beat some synthetic Italian saliva!

Silvano uses photographs on his iPad to show Tony & company the impact of his work.

Roger, Tommy, Billy and John listen as Silvano explains the restoration process.

Silvano shows the group his magnifying glasses and fine fibre optic brush for cleaning the paintings.

Mixing a solution for cleaning the painting. I think this was a mix of synthetic salvia and special soap.

Peter and Tony lean in to get a closer look at Silvano’s handiwork.

Workshop 2 Team Photo: Peter, Tony, Silvano, Louise and Bev.

A big thank you to Silvano and everyone who attended.

If you’d like to be notified about future workshops. Please e-mail mroberts@haltonsthelensvca.org.uk

Thanks very much.

Matthew Roberts