Issues for outdoor sculptures: case study the Brabo Fountain

Abstract

Middelheim Museum, known for its beautiful collection of modern and contemporary sculptures, is an expert in exposing and preserving outdoor art. Outdoor sculptures are extremely vulnerable to weather conditions, pollution and vandalism, which demands a highly specialized preservation and restoration policy. This publication explores that policy by focusing on a specific case: the Brabo Fountain. Since it is a statue located in the public space, not only the exposure of the material has to be taken into account, but also the relation between the omnipresent public and the statue has to be identified. 'Issues for Outdoor Sculptures' explores a comprehensive technical approach of conservation and restoration of the outdoor and public sculpture in constant relation to the content of it.