Untitled Charles O. Perry Sculpture, 1977
The untitled sculpture located outside the Scott Rakow Youth Center in Miami Beach, Florida was created in 1977 by internationally renowned artist Charles O. Perry. Although Perry was known for architecture and design, he was particularly celebrated for his large-scale public sculptures. His work frequently translated principles of mathematics and science into sculptural form.
EverGreene was contracted by the City of Miami Beach to conduct a condition assessment of the sculpture, develop treatment recommendations, and provide conservation oversight during the restoration. Prior to EverGreene’s involvement, an engineer evaluated structural concerns, and those findings helped inform EverGreene’s recommendations. The resulting recommendations outlined specific materials and methods for the conservation and restoration work.
As a part of the work, it was determined that the sculpture required removal and reapplication of its painted finishes. EverGreene was contracted to sample existing coatings, establish paint chronologies, and match the original colors to a modern commercial paint system. All color matches were approved by the artist prior to treatment.
The sculpture was removed to a local facility for treatment. EverGreene provided conservation oversight during the work, which was carried out by local craftspeople in accordance with EverGreene’s recommendations. Treatments included:
- Removal of existing coatings
- Treatment of surface corrosion and oxidation using blast cleaning, pressurized water, and other mechanical means.
- Repairs to damaged elements, including removal and replacement of severely damaged sections.
- Installation of new interior structural steel supports designed by the engineer.
- Application of protective and aesthetic coatings on exterior steel elements
- Application of protective coatings on interior steel elements
Once treatments were concluded, the sculpture was reinstalled in its original location.
