Grounds For Sculpture (GFS)  is in the midst of a restoration project to rejuvenate and conserve the sculpture Leucantha, by Philip Grausman – an iconic sculpture prominently displayed on the pond at Rat’s Restaurant. To support this effort, GFS has begun a public campaign to raise the remaining $50K in funds required to complete this work. 

Nearly two decades after its last treatment in 2007, Leucantha is undergoing an extensive conservation project. Over time, the sculpture’s protective surface coating has weathered under sun, wind, water, and pollution—natural forces that eventually touch every outdoor artwork. This restoration will involve removing and replacing the deteriorated coating, ensuring the sculpture’s brilliant surface and structural integrity are preserved for future generations.

The work is being led by the paint and patina experts of the Johnson Atelier – a premier fabricator and restorer that joined GFS’ operations last year and whose deep knowledge of materials and conservation techniques makes them exceptionally suited for the task.

GFS received a generous grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to support a portion of the costs, initiating the necessary restoration labor that is officially underway.  Due to the unique care required to restore the large-scale sculpture – including deinstallation, reinstallation, labor, materials, and specialized transportation –  final costs will exceed over $80,000.

We are now looking to the passionate individuals in our community who would like to support the ongoing restorative work of this beloved piece.

Restoration of “Leucantha” by Phillip Grausman is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional support is provided by Brooke Barrie Fund, Marion and Robert Pollack, and Jon and Meredith Stevens.