Forty Five years ago, Iowa State University commissioned Japanese artist Ryokichi Mikai to create a work of art that would serve as the Main House Curtain for the Stephens Auditoium.
Woven in Japan, it took 7 people working four months to complete the “Silver Code” a woven masterpiece. 3,500 Curtain calls later there was urgent need for cleaning and restoration to preserve this work of art. The University, in conjunction with the state, hired a textile conservationist to work on the cleaning. They then called on IWEISS to consult and complete the restoration. Misha Sturtevant, IWEISS Drapery Production Manager did a site survey and analysis and returned 2 months later with a crew of 4 from our shop. The massive 80’w 35’h curtain was gently lowered onto a protective covering on the floor and the IWEISS crew went to work – 10 hands sewing and stitching including hand sewing a new fire retardant liner to the back for additional protection and stability.
The Silver Code is now good for another 45 years.
For More Info:
