Sainsbury’s Concrete Mural

Background

These murals were created by Colchester artists Henry and Joyce Collins. This documentary made by the Colchester Civic Society gives a good background on their national legacy:

The artists original plan for Bexhill:

How the mural looked upon Sainsbury’s opening day, 8th June 1976:
Sainsbury Archive

The Restoration

Before work begins – grey, dirty and drab.

Having sought advice from Orbis Conservation based in London (who worked on the other murals from the same artist). It was advised to avoid the harsh use of chemical products and to use de-ionised water, washing-up liquid and brushes for the initial cleaning. It was found the soap began drawing out black oils from the concrete caused by years of being exposed to road traffic. To combat this we treated each relief with poultice, an absorbent paste which, when left on for 48 hours draws out much of the staining.

We’re matching the original painting scheme wherever possible. A white undercoat is applied, followed by a base yellow colour then gold mica powder and exterior varnish are mixed to create a gilded look. The only other colour used on the murals is red.

To help stabilise and protect the plaster behind each panel, we’re applying three coats of limewash paint. This a traditional, eco-friendly coating made from limestone and water.

A wax coating has been applied to the blue mosaics to help protect them. Local tiler Luke Davis helped to replace the missing and broken tiles at the bottom of the mural.

The Unveiling

On the 18th October 2024 crowds gathered to see the official unveiling of the newly restored mural. Local MP Kieran Mullan; Richard Thomas, Chair of Rother District Council; Councillor Christine Bayliss and Councillor Ruairi McCourt were in attendance to celebrate the return of artists Henry and Joyce Collins’ original vision. An interpretation board has now been installed to explain the murals significance.

Read more:
– Sussex World: Unveiling of restored landmark Sainsburys mural in Bexhill
– Bexhill News: Plaque unveiled to celebrate Bexhill street mural completion
– Twentieth Century Society: Henry and Joyce Collins Bexhill murals restored
Photo credits: Justin Lycett