DuBois- Local artist Marianne Fyda gave advice and examples of restoring paintings and artwork as the guest speaker for the DuBois Area Historical Society’s 16th Spring Luncheon.
Fyda opened her presentation by explaining how proper framing, glass, and matting can help prevent potential damage caused by everyday exposure, smoke, moisture, and other outside influences. However, even the best efforts may not be enough.
When that happens restoration will help. Fyda described the process she called, “healing the wounds,” in completing a restoration for both a standard four-sided painting and an oval painting. The work involves fixing any cracks in the paint, using a proper cleaning cloth to remove dirt, and matching paint to repair any chips in the original. She also explained the casting and use of body puddy to restore a damaged, original frame to its original appearance.
Fyda also displayed several of her own paintings completed for the Bellefonte Art Museum, explaining her thoughts in preparing the project. “This is what artists do,” she said. “You have to be yourself. Projects like these make me want to keep going.”
Through their business, Peaceable Kingdom in DuBois, Fyda and her husband, Gene, complete many art restoration projects. The DuBois Area Historical Society has several paintings in its collection restored by the Fydas.
Fifty-three people attended the luncheon held at Christ Lutheran Church in DuBois. Society President Kathleen Clement gave the welcome and announcements.
Gateway Café provided a catered lunch of: three varieties of six-inch hoagies, chicken noodle soup, pasta salad, chips, cookie, and beverages.
Upcoming historical society events include:
September 18 – Annual dinner. Guest speaker, Greg Murray, “The History of Murray Ford,” Christ Lutheran Church, 6 p.m. More details to be announced at a later date.
October 4 – 17th Spirit of DuBois Lantern Walk, “80th Anniversary of the End of World War II”. More details to be announced at a later date.
