Christopher Columbus Mural Project
Notre Dame University
As part of the University of Notre Dame’s initiative to balance historical preservation with contemporary perspectives, CGS Imaging partnered with Cardosi Kiper Design Group to design and install custom-built fabric frames that respectfully cover the 19th-century Christopher Columbus murals in the Main Building. These removable fabric displays feature nature-inspired designs, incorporating elements such as trees, leaves, flowers, and birds, paying homage to the Midwestern landscape and the cultural influence of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi.
The Challenge
Notre Dame required a reversible, non-invasive solution that preserved the murals while ensuring that the new design complemented the historic setting. Key challenges included:
Preservation – The murals, painted directly onto the walls, needed to remain untouched.
Cultural Sensitivity – The design needed to respectfully address concerns regarding Columbus’s depiction.
Aesthetic Integration – The fabric coverings had to complement the historic architecture of the Main Building.
Reversibility – The system needed to allow the murals to be revealed when necessary for educational and historical purposes.
Our Solution
Design & Fabrication – CGS Imaging printed the artwork onto high-quality dye-sublimated fabric and utilized SEG (Silicone Edge Graphics) frames, ensuring seamless integration with the existing space.
Architectural Coordination – Cardosi Kiper Design Group played a key role in designing and engineering the installation, ensuring that the fabric frames fit within the historical and architectural context of the Main Building.
The Result
The Notre Dame Christopher Columbus Mural Project successfully delivered a modern preservation solution that:
✅ Protected the historic murals while allowing future accessibility.
✅ Honored Indigenous culture with a thoughtfully designed visual narrative.
✅ Blended seamlessly with the Main Building’s architectural integrity.
✅ Offered flexibility through an innovative removable system.
The Result
Through collaboration and technical expertise, CGS Imaging and Cardosi Kiper Design Group created a functional and aesthetically integrated solution that respects history while addressing evolving cultural perspectives.
This case study showcases our commitment to innovative design, high-quality craftsmanship, and respect for history and culture—values that define CGS Imaging’s approach to every project.
