Cultural heritage management of outdoor concrete statues

Abstract

This study presents a restoration project on a concrete statue that plays a significant role in preserving the cultural heritage of the exclusive female hall at Takoradi Technical University (TTU) in Ghana. The sculpture holds cultural and historical significance from 1996 to 2023, representing the rich heritage and achievements of the female students who have resided in the hall throughout the years. However, due to environmental factors and natural wear and tear, the statue requires restoration to ensure its long-term preservation. This study investigates the restoration process, including the assessment of the statue’s condition, the identification of suitable conservation methods, and the implementation of restoration techniques. Through a combination of archival research, on-site inspections, and expert consultations, the studio-based study provided insights into the best practices for managing and safeguarding the artistic and historical value of the outdoor sculpture ‘Creating Awareness through Sculpture.’ The findings contributed to the broader discourse on preserving cultural heritage and promoting gender inclusivity within educational institutions. Additionally, it served as a valuable resource for future restoration projects to ensure that the cultural legacy of TTU’s exclusive female hall remains intact for generations to come.

Keywords

• Cultural heritage
• female hall
• outdoor sculpture
• restoration
• Takoradi Technical University
• Culture