Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Restoration work on the panel with Hermann Hesse's portrait, located on Savvinskaya Embankment (building 27), has been completed in Moscow. The work was created using a unique technique of carving the image into layers of plaster. It will once again be accessible to the public in 2026, according to Moscow's Chief Architect. Sergey Kuznetsov.
"Attitudes toward street art have changed dramatically; people have learned to value and preserve it. Initially, the work featuring Hermann Hesse's portrait was considered illegal, but it became so popular with locals that it was decided to preserve and restore it. To preserve the mural, a project was developed to relocate the wall fragment, restore it, protect it from the elements, and install architectural lighting. The dismantling and relocation of the fragment was carried out with the utmost care," noted Sergey Kuznetsov.
The work of Portuguese artist Alexandre Farto, better known as Vhils, appeared on the façade of the Moscow Silk Factory dormitory in 2008. Now it will be integrated into the infrastructure of the new residential complex.
Before restoration, the mural was in a state of disrepair: the paint had faded, and the plaster was peeling and infected with fungus. Upon inspection, specialists discovered that up to 60 percent of the surface had become weakened and required replacement. Georgy Myasnikov and Mikhail Pilyugin, members of the Union of Artists of Russia, were brought in to carry out restoration work using restoration techniques.
The work began with removing damaged areas and strengthening the remaining surface. The wall was treated with a hydrophobic impregnation to protect against moisture, and a primer was applied to ensure adhesion. Next, specialists mixed mortar and pigments by hand to accurately reproduce the original texture and color of the coating. The plaster was applied layer by layer, and the carvings were made in the wet and drying mortar, allowing the artist to closely approximate the artist's original technique. Simple tools were used for the work: knives, spatulas, and wooden trowels.
According to experts, the primary goal was to preserve the authenticity of the work. The work restored the texture and clarity of the panel's lines. The piece is considered to be in stable condition: without further intervention, it can now last at least five years, and with proper care, up to half a century.
Today, the mural is recognized as a significant part of Moscow's cultural landscape and one of the early iconic works by Vhils, whose projects have been exhibited internationally. In 2012, it was included in the program of the capital's "Best City on Earth" festival. Muscovites will be able to admire the renovated portrait of Hermann Hesse on Savvinskaya Embankment later this summer, once the project is completed.
Get the latest news quickly on official Moscow messaging channels. MAX AndTelegram.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.