A Truly Special Preservation ProjectWe had the privilege of partnering with the Zoological Society of Milwaukee on a truly special project: the restoration of a 60-year-old polar bear mount. This impressive specimen has been part of their collection for decades, and bringing it back to life required equal parts craftsmanship, preservation expertise, and respect for the history behind it.Assessment and PlanningOver the years, the mount had naturally begun to show signs of wear. Our team carefully assessed the bear from nose to tail, identifying areas that needed:Structural repairGrooming and fur restorationTouch-up work on featuresThe Restoration ProcessRestoring a mount of this age means working slowly and meticulously—protecting original materials while strengthening them for many more years of public viewing. Every step was documented, and we used reversible techniques wherever possible to maintain the integrity of this historic piece.Refreshing the EnvironmentIn addition to the repairs, we refreshed and expanded the snow base surrounding the bear. Using modern materials and techniques, we were able to give the display a brighter, more natural winter appearance. The added snow brings contrast and elevates the realism of the entire scene, helping viewers imagine the bear in its natural Arctic environment.Custom ProtectionThe final step was creating a custom, oversized glass case to protect the mount. This enclosure not only shields the bear from dust, handling, and environmental fluctuations but also enhances its presentation—allowing guests to enjoy the display from all angles while preserving it for future generations.Why This Work MattersProjects like this are a reminder of why we love what we do: blending restoration, artistry, and conservation to ensure that these incredible educational displays continue to inspire and teach long into the future.