Assessment of “The Serious Learner” Outdoor Concrete Statue in TTU, Ghana: A Restoration Process (Before and After)

Abstract

This paper assesses the restoration process (before and after) of "The Serious Learner”, an outdoor concrete statue found at the forecourt of Oduro block, Takoradi Technical University (TTU)-Ghana. Direct observations and unstructured interviews under the qualitative research method were employed to elicit data from respondents such as art lecturers and students of the Sculpture Department, TTU. Data were analyzed using archival studies, descriptive and visual analysis tools with a studio-based process. The study revealed that "The Serious Learner" outdoor concrete statue formed an integral element of landscaping at the Oduro block, TTU. However, significant features such as the pedestal, body parts, lighting system and finishes of the outdoor statue have deteriorated due to weathering and had received no restoration since its erection. Repairs and management of artefacts in public space, not only in TTU, should be performed every two years to ensure their longevity and posterity as conservation and restoration method is significant in outdoor sculptures.