In 1956 graphic designer Richard Beck was commissioned to create a new mural to commemorate the Melbourne Olympics on the side of Hosies Hotel in Flinders Street.
Beck, one of the Australia’s most prominent modernist graphic artists, was on top of his game. He had designed the official Melbourne Olympics poster, Melbourne’s first decorated tram to celebrate the 1954 royal visit, and publicity stamps promoting the Melbourne Games between 1954 and 1956.
Still standing: Richard Beck’s son Chris and City of Melbourne councillor Rohan Leppert in front of his 1956 mosaic design.Credit:Scott McNaughton
But the commission for Hosies Hotel initially eluded him: the selectors sent his proposal back.
Frustrated, Beck dashed off a quick design of pot glasses coming together in a “cheers”.
“He thought ‘stuff it’, and drew a quick drawing of three glasses clinking, and they loved it,” Beck’s son Chris recalled, laughing, below the successful design.
“It was out of pique, in a way, but he was so good it’s like Picasso – even if you do a quick drawing, it’s going to be good.”
The successful design, which is heritage listed, still hugs the side of the building on the corner of Flinders and Elizabeth streets.
Its bright tiles are faded and there are about 50 drilled holes through the lower portion from long-gone signs, but those who look up from the busy intersection can still see the modernist design, considered cutting edge at the time.
Conservator Andrew Thorn from Artcare, which is charged with restoring the mosaic, said a team led by Anca Nicolaescu would take two to three weeks to complete its task.
Grouting that dissolved over time has formed a powdery layer over the top of the mosaic, which the team will clean away. Then they will turn their attention to repairing and water-proofing grouting, repairing damaged tiles and filling the holes.
The key will be to honour and preserve what remains, Mr Thorn said, meaning the mosaic will not be repainted.
“The modern concept of conservation is to do the minimal amount possible to make the object fully comprehensible,” he said. “We try to avoid doing things just because we can.”
The restoration is taking place thanks to a $55,000 grant from the City of Melbourne’s heritage restoration fund.
The council’s heritage lead, Councillor Rohan Leppert, said heritage restoration was valuable, but could also be expensive.
“Thousands of people pound the pavement underneath this artwork every day and may be surprised that the mural dates back to the 1956 Olympics,” Cr Leppert said.
“This work is all about recognising the places that have importance to us as a community.”
The restoration works, originally intended to coincide with the Tokyo Olympics but delayed due to repeated lockdowns, will begin as soon as restrictions allow.
The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here.
Most Viewed in National
From our partners
Source: Read Full Article
