Former Iolan Tom Ellis, a Los Angeles-based artist home for a visit, used a high-pressure water wand rather than brush to weave his magic Saturday morning. Then, with a fresh “palate,” he began painting decorative tin work, a chore he continued Wednesday afternoon.
Ellis was one of 14 volunteers who spent 12 hours removing paint from the front of the building at 18 E. Jackson Ave., which today houses Denny’s Sports Center. They also replaced tin that decorated the building’s facade when it was built more than a century ago.
The tin work repair was helped by the fact identical facings were salvaged from a structure next door when it was razed.
“It was a perfect match,” said David Toland, Thrive Allen County executive director.
“We’re experimenting right now” on what the front of the building eventually will look like, Toland said.
Additional volunteers may make themselves available by calling Thrive, 365-8128. Subsequent work sessions will be scheduled. Several will be required.
Ellis, in addition to helping with prep work, will paint coverings of four windows to make them resemble the real thing. Some windows also will replaced by Dennis Lushbough, the owner.
Brick on the west wall also will be spruced up. A large mural, including replication of the original Coca Cola advertisement, will be the final touch.
