Mural Arts Director Presents Plans

While the Land Use, Planning and Zoning Committee of the Chestnut Hill Community Association decided to keep its collective opinions away from the artistic side of a mural, the committee did have questions Thursday night about the technical aspects.

Jane Golden, executive director of the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, spoke to the materials, planning and maintanence of the for 's wall.

"These murals usually last about 25 years, an possibly much longer," said Caroline King, who accompanied Golden to the meeting.

The design, which was chosen with input from Bredenbeck's owner Karen Rohde, shows a scene from Wissahickon Park. The painting also incorporated architectural aspects onto the white, stucco wall.

When asked about the integrity of the wall, to ensure that the work would not be undermined by structural issues, Rohde stated that the wall was replaced two years ago, and Mural Arts staff added that the wall had been inspected.

As for maintanence of the mural, Golden assured LUPZ members that a contingency fund was part of , and the mural would not be started until sufficient funds for upkeep are included in the budget.

"We use the best materials, we do ongoing studies to make sure we have the best materials, and if something happens to it, we would come and fix it," Golden said.

The presentation ended with the committee voting 4-1 in favor of supporting the technical aspects of the mural, while leaving the artistic elements in the hands of the artist.

For the artistic details of the mural, see .