Old Main, State College, PA - Fresco Conservation

Conservation work on the historic frescoes at Penn State University’s Old Main was carried out in collaboration with conservator John Rita of Albert Michaels, with treatment focused on stabilizing original materials, addressing areas of deterioration, and preserving the integrity of the murals while maintaining their historic character. The frescoes were painted in the 1940s by American artist Henry Varnum Poor and were created to reflect Penn State’s identity and mission as a land grant university through scenes of education, agriculture, and industry.

Images courtesy of Penn State University News. Photography by Pat Mansell / Penn State. Used for educational and informational purposes. Source: Hidden Gems: The land-grant frescoes at Old Main