PAST THE NASTY!

As we near completion of this masterful restoration, the really nasty, pitted area turned out to be not as daunting as we thought. Much contemplation on behalf of the Capt. was needed to plan the chronology of the upcoming final steps

The Capt.’s plan of attack on this last phase was to finish the remaining swirl of 1” squares (DONE), then tackle the areas that ascend the walls on either side, and finally the last tendrils that go down over the steps. Also, it evolved that we should leave 5 of the 8 architectural witnesses to the original masterpiece so be certain to find them when you visit and check out the surprise helper. A brief check-in conversation with Kim Smerek synched the Capt.’s choice to brush on the topcoats rather than to spray to ensure full protective saturation of the uneven surface. 23 years ago, she made the same choice so the two artists are in harmony of thought and action. Of course, all this hustle under the watchful eye of the ever-vigilant qc inspector.

. . . speechless is the term that comes to mind as we view this gorgeous phoenix once again gracing the entryway of this equally magnificent old gal . . .

In tribute to this effort in general, I wanted to experience with the 3 squares that we chose NOT to save as architectural witnesses what the Capt. invested in 27 days of 4-7 hours per day. What a further appreciation I have for the perfection of him accomplishing this artistic feat.