Science Block Mural

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31018, 25 March 1966, Page 14

Science Block Mural

This arresting mural relief, designed and modelled in bronzed epoxy resin by Ria Bancroft with forms constructed and carved in mahogany by Pat Mulcahy, has been mounted in the southern gallery of the new science lecture theatre block of the University of Canterbury at Ham. It is about 27ft long. The mural can be seen by the public from the broad paved plaza outside the main entrance to the block. Most science students pass beneath it when they attend lectures.

The work was commissioned by th® Ministry of Works architectural division as designer of the science buildings and is part of the contract.

The artists, both of Christchurch, escrib the work as “a complex of abstracts with shapes derived from a great variety of forms.” Apart from its striking size and design, the work bears close examination in detail because of the exquisite modelling, carving, and surface of each piece. Mrs Bancroft used techniques she developed herself

in making epoxy resin forms over expanded-steel armatures. Mr Mulcahy employed a variety of techniques in his carving. Gold and copper bronzing was used and then a patina applied which creates other vivid colour effects. In parts the natural wood grain shows, in others the artifici-ally-created surfaces. At present the relief does not show to best advantage. Sanding of floors, the dust of construction nearby, and other grime has tended to dull the colour. When work finishes, the colours should be more apparent.