More than two months ago, residents of Lwówek Śląski were up in arms. It was all because of renovation work on a block of flats in the city center (Freedom Square). The issue concerned a mural by the now-deceased Bolesławiec resident Mieczysław Żołądź. It commemorated Lwówek’s 800-year brewing tradition. The homeowners’ association decided that the entire building was to be insulated. The residents wanted the renovation. The mural was less important. Besides, the association could not afford to restore Mieczysław Żołądź’s work.
– I live in Warsaw every day, but I often return to Lwówek. If this mural is covered with polystyrene, it will be another historic place to disappear from the map of this city, Michał Psonkasaid several weeks ago.
The mural attracted the attention of Ludwik Kaziów, mayor of Lwówek Śląski. The original painting was covered with polystyrene, but first very detailed photographic documentation was prepared and several artists were asked to estimate the cost of reconstructing the work. The best offer came from local artist Dariusz Miliński, who took on the reconstruction of Żołądź’s work.
Repainting the fresco took just under two weeks and cost PLN 20,000. The municipality covered the expense. Thanks to the mayor’s personal involvement, one of the city’s symbols was saved. “I would like to thank the residents of the building who agreed to have the mural restored,” Kaziówsaid.
(information: Marcin Kaszuba/ii)