Jerry Cranham is restoring the statue back to its original luster.
by Patricia Schallert
Restoration efforts are underway to preserve the distinguished statue of Junipero Serra, now situated at the Mission Basilica San Buenaventura. The objective is to carefully remove dirt and red paint while safeguarding the original patina, seamlessly restoring the colors to their initial finish. The patina, which results from exposure to the elements, showcases the statue’s aging and basic appearance. To prevent the emergence of a green tint often seen on older statues, an oil bronze finish is meticulously applied, ensuring it maintains its intended look since its creation in 1989 for Junipero Serra.
The restoration process encompasses several crucial elements. An evaluation of the statue’s condition identifies areas in need of repair. Skilled expert Jerry Cranham employs specialized techniques, using gentle solvents and tools to eliminate dirt, grime, and pollutants, while stabilizing and reconstructing any damaged portions. The addition of a protective coating serves to guarantee the statue’s durability. With Jerry’s expertise, he places emphasis on historical accuracy and while preserving the statue’s original features and historical integrity.
Jerry began the restoration project the day it arrived at the Mission and careful observation showed red paint splatters on the statue. “Removal of red paint splatters entails the careful usage of an X-acto knife and scrapper to avoid scratching the statue and exposing its cast and metal.” A mixture of linseed oil, denatured alcohol, mineral spirits, and Scotts Liquid Gold oil effectively eliminates surface dirt, including aged particles. Scratches are skillfully filled with wax and sealed to “maintain the statue’s integrity”. Jerry also uses a modified bees wax to restore “color and finish”.
The natural patina, developed through atmospheric exposure, is respected, while the absence caused by a previous cleaning process is accounted for.
The statue’s significance lies in its representation of the original 1930s installation, completed through the WPA Works Progress Administration (WPA) National project, constructed as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal initiative. The statue has a rich history in Ventura, having been recast in 1989, commemorating Junipero Serra’s role as the city’s founder and the namer of both the city and county of San Buenaventura.
Fr. Tom Elewaut, Pastor of the Mission Basilica San Buenaventura describes the final phases of restoration which includes the delivery of the original bronze plaque to the statue’s site. A bronze sign will commemorate the original installation at City Hall in 1989, while a second plaque will display the date of installation at the Mission in March 2024. Landscapers will meticulously incorporate vegetation and rocks to accentuate the statue’s surroundings. The base will be polished to a dark black, resembling marble. Completion of the final phase is anticipated by April or May.
For those interested in contributing to the restoration and preservation of the Junipero Serra Statue at the Mission Basilica San Buenaventura Gardens, a GoFundMe account has been created to directly accept donations. Your generous support will significantly contribute to this valuable endeavor. Donations can be made through the following link: Help preserve ~ Ventura St. Junipero Serra Statue, organized by Mission Basilica San Buenaventura .
