Metal Stripping

Paul was astonished at how good the quality of the steel was underneath the paint/rust layers, especially since it’s 70 years old. Paul also took apart all internal elements (such as the tube supports and glass casings) as they’re salvageable and he hopes to reuse with our sign.

Old paint removed from Culver neon sign

Old paint and bulbs removed from the sign

Old paint removed from Culver neon sign

Old paint and bulbs removed from the sign

Old paint removed from Culver neon sign

The Culver neon sign is reading for priming!

Primer Coat and Wood Supports Applied

All sign pieces have been given a primer coating before they’re taken to the metal shop for metal repair. Paul attaches wood planks to each piece to help support, as some of them are so damaged they fold underneath their own weight.

Primed neon sign is ready for the next step!

The 70 year old sign buckles under its own weight

Adding support braces to the back of the sign

Paul applies braces to help support the sign during the restoration process

Transporting the sign

A classic transporting a classic

Full Gallery

Click on any image to view larger. 

 


 

The Culver Theatre opened on August 13, 1946, with a seating capacity of around 1,100, showing the film “Red Stallion”

Albert R. Walker was the architect of record and Carl G. Moeller was the design consultant. The design style was “Streamline Moderne” or “Art Moderne;” a later version of art deco architecture which was less ornamental and more ‘aerodynamic’ in look.

The interior of the Culver was a “Skouras Style” confection. At a time when much design was getting the modern look, the head of Fox West Coast Theatres, Charles Skouras, had his architectural team in the late 40s and early 50s take a different tack towards a lush neobaroque feel.” Source

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