Oct. 1--It has taken longer than planned, but the Capitol Campus' most prominent piece of art is about to reappear.

Restoration of Winged Victory is ending, as contractors buff a new brown finish on four, larger-than-life figures that had been painted brassy gold.

The memorial to veterans of World War I has been wrapped in scaffolding and white plastic for weeks, as the state embarked on a $167,000 project to repair it and restore its original finish.

"I was just in there. It is beautiful," said Marygrace Jennings, cultural resources manager for the state Department of General Administration. "Right now they are buffing out the finish, after which they will apply a sealant. After that, they will take down the scaffolding."

Work was scheduled to be completed by the end of September, but complications hindered work, including an unexpected amount of water built up inside the statues. The hollow bronze statues of Nike, goddess of victory; a Red Cross nurse; a sailor; a soldier; and a Marine have corroded since being installed in 1938, allowing water inside.

The cracks and holes have been sealed, but a few openings will be left to allow the last of the water to drain, Jennings said. She said the state plans to re-examine the artwork in a year, checking for new leaks or cracks.

Public ceremony

A public celebration of its restoration is set for 3:30 p.m Oct. 14, hosted by the Department of Veterans Affairs and General Administration. The ceremony will take place near the monument, which is in the traffic circle next to the Capitol.

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