Restoring the Bama theater murals

Where is Ruth going with that paint palette?  For several weeks now, Ruth O'Connor, co-founder and director of O'Connor Art Studios has been seen leaving the studio fully equipped with paint palette and brushes in hand.  But the summer heat is still upon us and surely she is not plein air painting.  No, she is not.  She is headed to the BAMA theater in downtown Tuscaloosa, ready to paint.  

Our historical BAMA theater in downtown Tuscaloosa is undergoing a minor yet significant restoration this month.  After almost a year of research on the unconventional materials and approaches taken to paint the murals in the BAMA theater, they are finally ready to be restored!  Just in time for the 75th anniversary of the theater, too.  

Serving as a board member on The Arts Council for the past three years, Ruth Jatib O'Connor started a little research here and there,  but it was not until earlier this year that the actual work began.  The preparatory work involved many professionals and required much research, but this month she has been able to directly paint on the murals, matching color to color of the original landscape scenes.  As a final step in the mural restoration, the newly restored works of art will be protected to avoid further damage.  

Come visit the BAMA Art House during it's many events or call to schedule a tour of the murals in it's restoration progress.  Contact The Arts Council at (205) 758-5195 or O'Connor Art Studios at (205) 396-9892.

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