JOHN OSHOKE ANABUI

Over time, outdoor sculptures have often succumbed to the harsh weather conditions. Hence, the dire need to safeguard these sculptures from continued degradation. This research is premised on the observed deterioration of the outdoor polystyrene sculptures on Ekenhuan Campus, executed by John Oshoke Anabui in 2014. After nine years of exposure to harsh weather conditions, the sculpture has shown significant signs of wear. The paint coating originally applied to enhance its appearance and protect it from damage has begun to peel, and the surface texture has progressively degraded, despite a restoration effort carried out in 2015 and 2023. This research explored the use of integral colour and wax finishing techniques as an alternative to conventional surface finishing methods. The process involves mixing water-based paints with sawdust, which is then sun-dried. Additionally, natural materials such as charcoal, eggshells, and wood ash were experimented with and utilized as integral pigments in combination with sawdust. The coloured sawdust was mixed thoroughly with polystyrene that was dissolved in PMS (Premium Motor Spirit) resulting in a sticky, paste-like consistency. This mixture was then transformed into a solid form using the modelling and casting technique. The initial layer of cast carried the colour, design, and patterns that defined the final appearance. The entire cast had a thickness of approximately half a centimeter. To enhance durability and to preserve both the colour and surface texture, a protective polish using beeswax and paraffin wax was applied, serving as a barrier against humidity and surface abrasion. However, after eight months of simulated outdoor exposure, it was observed that the treated samples exhibited significantly greater colour retention than painted controls and there was no abrasion on the surface texture. In addition, the liquid soap used as a release agent between the cast and the mould was found to react with PMS and visible stains on the surface of the cast in the special project, making the surface look dull and faded but after applying the wax polish, the final outlook was enhanced with no tract of the liquid soap stain.