We often get asked how and where we got started in this unique business. The answer is we got started in Chemainus and simply did it. I was asked to design and build Heritage Square, a series of three pools with a forest theme. I knew nothing of the 'secret' concrete formulas, how to build an armature, how to colour the concrete or which tools to use. I simply did the best I could with what we had on hand. I mixed the concrete mortar and trowled it on with a triangle trowel. I didn't know to let it set a little and then sculpt it. That was back in 1984 - thirty-four years ago. The pool and concrete work are still there to this day and still look pretty good. We've come a long ways since.
Mural done
After two long days I put the last paint stokes on the mural this evening as the sun set. The 'Spirit of Chemainus' has now been restored to it's former glory.
Back to school and then begin
After a little more than 27 years of sun and weather the 'Spirit of Chemainus' mural was badly faded but otherwise the paint has held up really well. Before I could begin work I first received the official and mandatory 'articulated lift device training' course. The in-depth course was a formality to update my certification. I've been operating similar machines for decades but was without current certification. Then, with the shiny new certificate in hand I could at last officially start the work on the mural. I made good progress on my first day, covering the sky, mountain background and about half of the sails with with base coats of colour. The mural brightened up immensely, already looking much more like it did more than a quarter century ago. Tomorrow, I'll strap on my safety harness once again and continue the work.
