The temporary Collections Assistant hired for the summer of 2021 will work within Purchasing protocols to have a number of the sculptures re-surfaced with either paint or varnishes to return them to original colour and condition. As mentioned previously, sculptures located outdoors are impacted by weather and the surrounding environment.

The following sculptures have been identified for re-painting:

  1. Sisters II (WSP.2002.001)

  2. Sisters (WSP.2002.002)

  3. King and Queen (WSP.2002.004) and

  4. Consophia (WSP.2002.032)

The replacement of eight stainless steel components that have gone missing over the past few years from the sculpture Audio Corridor (WSP.2002.033) will also occur.

Another task to be completed in 2021 will be the removal of the protective wax coating on the sculpture Consolation (WSP.2002.011). Successive layers of pigmented/coloured wax will assist in matching the patina of the sculpture to hide a repair while also restoring the protective coating.

Risk Analysis:

Resource Risks: It is important that regular maintenance occurs with these cultural assets to ensure the collection is enjoyed by residents now and well into the future.

Community Impact Risks: The sculptures are located along the riverfront trail system. This location places the art within a very public domain. Should the pieces not receive the attention they require on a yearly basis, the riverfront will lose some of its visual appeal.

Financial Matters:

The ongoing maintenance of the Windsor Sculpture Park occurs through two funding streams. Trust Fund 178 Odette Sculpture Park Endowment funds the annual maintenance of the Odette sculpture donations and has a balance as of August 31, 2020 of $147,064.57. In 2018, through the annual operating budget deliberations, additional funds were approved to oversee the cleaning of other public art installations. Council approved $60,000 to the annual operating budget to cover wages, fringe benefits and supplies required to complete the annual maintenance.

Additionally, the City’s fine arts insurance coverage will cover the majority of the vandalism damage that occurred in 2020, whether that be cost to replace, or a monetary settlement for items that cannot be replaced. The City’s Fine Art deductible is $5,000. The three March events are all being considered as one deductible event.

The 2012 appraisal value of Business Man on a Horse was $220,000 and the appraisal of Tiger was $13,608. The Insurer is currently working with the City’s Risk Management team on this file.