Jack Lewis mural moves closer to new home

A mural painted by Delaware artist Jack Lewis is getting closer to its new home at the Lewes Public Library. But before moving the piece to its new proposed home, owner Wells Fargo Bank wants an appraisal of the work

A professional photographer snapped pictures of the painting after the branch at Midway closed Saturday, Feb. 26.

The mural was replaced in the space above teller stations where it had been displayed for decades.

Barbara Nate, Wells Fargo spokeswoman, said photos of the mural would be used to produce a poster for display in the branch.

During the process of handling the mural for the photo session, Nate said an appraiser would examine it to estimate its value and determine if it is titled.

At press time, Nate said she did not know if a value had been determined or if a title had been found. Similar Jack Lewis murals have been valued at $10,000 to $15,000.

She said the bank, with assistance from Rehoboth Beach Historical Society, is developing art incorporating digital copies of archival photographs of the Lewes and Rehoboth Beach areas.

Nate said the photos would be used to create a laminated montage, displayed where Lewis’ mural used to be.

After the bank first took the mural down, there was a failed attempt to donate it to the Biggs Museum of American Art in Dover. Nate said bank officials became aware of community complaints about moving the painting out of Sussex County because all of its scenes depict coastal areas. Many said they thought the mural should have a home in the county.

Biggs Museum officials said they were disappointed about not acquiring a monumental piece of Lewis’ work – the mural is more than 30 feet long.

Ryan Grover, Biggs curator, said although they were disappointed, the museum’s primary concern was to have the painting go somewhere with a temperature- and humidity-controlled environment. He said the mural should also go where the maximum number of people would see it.

During discussions with Biggs, Mike DiPaolo, Lewes Historical Society executive director, told bank officials the society would accept the mural and find an appropriate home for it.

DiPaolo said following subsequent discussions with bank officials, they decided to donate the mural to the historical society. He said installation of the mural in the library could be complete by mid-March.

Lewis, now living in Maine, will be 99 years old this year. He has not been available for comment.

Many say he is Delaware’s most acclaimed living artist.