A beloved mural honoring the late French television journalist Jean-Pierre Pernaut has been temporarily removed from its prominent location in Ponts-et-Marais, a small commune in northern France. The artwork, which had been proudly displayed since March 4, 2022, was created by graffiti artist Johann Grenier, who works under the name Made in Graffiti. Local officials have assured residents that the mural will return in better condition after restoration work is completed.
Motorists traveling along the D 1015 highway between Eu and Gamaches now see a large tarp in place of the original mural. The temporary covering reproduces the artwork and includes the message "Under Restoration" to inform passersby about the ongoing project. This replacement serves as a placeholder while the community works on creating a more permanent solution for the cherished memorial.
The original mural had been painted on the concrete block wall of La Ferme Niçoise restaurant, which was destroyed in a fire in 2017. According to Bruno Langlois, deputy mayor of Ponts-et-Marais, the decision to remove the artwork was not made lightly. "The wall was beginning to crack everywhere, the paint was crumbling, and visibility was no longer ideal," he explained, describing the deteriorating conditions that necessitated the removal.
The timing of the mural's removal coincides with a major infrastructure project in the area. The commune is currently undertaking significant construction work nearby, including the creation of a roundabout designed to improve traffic safety at the village exit and enhance overall circulation in the region. This development provided an opportunity to address the mural's deteriorating condition while improving the surrounding area.
Despite the temporary absence of the artwork, local officials have confirmed that the memorial will return to the community. "A new wall will be constructed at the location where the tarp currently stands," Langlois specified, outlining the plans for the mural's permanent reinstallation. The new structure is expected to provide a more stable and durable foundation for the artwork.
Artist Johann Grenier, known as Made in Graffiti, will be invited back to recreate his original work on the new wall. Local officials are committed to ensuring the longevity of the restored piece. "Everything will be done to make it last over time," the deputy mayor emphasized, indicating that the new installation will incorporate improvements to help preserve the artwork against weather and other environmental factors.
The mural had become a significant landmark for the region during its nearly three years of display. The artwork deeply resonated with local residents and visitors alike, transforming into a genuine symbol of the community's respect for the beloved television personality. Jean-Pierre Pernaut was widely known throughout France for his long tenure as a news anchor and his dedication to highlighting regional stories and local culture.
The restoration project reflects the community's commitment to preserving this important memorial while ensuring its visibility and durability for future generations. Once the new wall is completed and the artwork is recreated, the mural is expected to continue serving as a lasting tribute to Jean-Pierre Pernaut's legacy and his connection to French regional culture.
