Art Conservation and Preservation

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary goal of Exhibition Conservators when lending an artwork?

To return an artwork in the same condition that it was lent (correct)

To document and research the artwork's history

To restore the artwork to its original condition

To exhibit the artwork for a longer period

What is included in the process of conservation?

Examination, documentation, research, preservation, and restoration of artworks (correct)

Examination, documentation, and research of artworks only

Only examination and restoration of artworks

Only preservation and restoration of artworks

Why do conservators take photographs of the artwork?

To create a visual record of the artwork's condition

To provide evidence to support the findings of the condition report (correct)

To document the artwork's history

To exhibit the photographs alongside the artwork

What is the purpose of a condition report?

To document the artwork's physical condition before and after an exhibition Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'preventive conservation'?

The preservation of an artwork to prevent deterioration or damage Signup and view all the answers

What do conservators look for when inspecting a painting on canvas?

Surface marks, accretions, scratches, and larger structural damage Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of integrated pest management in conservation?

To prevent deterioration or damage to artworks through pest control Signup and view all the answers

What do conservators check at the end of an exhibition?

The artwork's condition against the incoming condition report Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to ensure appropriate environmental conditions for artworks?

To prevent deterioration or damage to artworks Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of art handlers wearing gloves when handling artworks?

To prevent the transfer of dirt and oils to the artwork Signup and view all the answers

How are light-sensitive materials, such as prints and photographs, typically stored and transported?

In solander boxes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the hinged lid on a solander box?

To create an airtight, darkened, and pH-neutral microclimate Signup and view all the answers

How are larger flat works, such as paintings, typically stored?

In framed and stored in sliding racks Signup and view all the answers

What type of storage solutions are required for large or complex sculptural works?

Custom-made storage solutions Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Conservation of Artworks

Conservation involves examination, documentation, research, preservation, and restoration of artworks.

Guiding Principles for Exhibition Conservators

Return an artwork in the same condition as it was lent.
Prevent deterioration or damage to artworks through preventive conservation.

Preventive Conservation Measures

Ensure appropriate environmental conditions.
Establish handling and maintenance procedures for: • Storage • Exhibition • Packing • Transport • Use
Implement integrated pest management.
Plan for emergencies.
Reformat or duplicate material when necessary.

Condition Report

Conducted before an artwork travels and upon its arrival at the gallery.
Involves a close inspection of the work's physical condition.
Documents: • Surface marks • Accretions • Scratches • Larger structural damage (e.g., dents, warping)
Notes any movement in the canvas caused by environmental changes.
Photographs are taken as evidence to support the report's findings.

Post-Exhibition Condition Check

Compare the artwork's condition to the incoming condition report.
Document any changes that occurred during the exhibition.

Handling and Installation

Art handlers, specially trained to handle artworks, assist with installation in galleries
They move artworks one at a time, often using trolleys or A-frames, to minimize handling and reduce risk of damage
When hanging, suspending or mounting works, handlers carry them from their strongest points, using clean hands or gloves (cotton or nitrile) depending on the artwork's materials
Gloves are worn to minimize transfer of dirt and oils

Storage

Only a fraction of the NGV Collection is on display at any given time, with most works spending most of their time in storage
The NGV has various storage areas and facilities designed to house the Collection, with systems for collection storage and management
Light-sensitive materials like prints, drawings, and photographs are stored in solander boxes, which provide a darkened, airtight, and pH-neutral microclimate
Within solander boxes, works are stacked horizontally in acid-free mounts
Larger flat works are stored in:
- Sliding racks (vertical screens with guide rails)
- Rigid timber slots in crates called tills
Fashion and textiles items are stored:
- Flat, wrapped or cushioned in archival boxes
- In drawers
- In custom storage units or supports
Large or complex sculptural works require custom-made storage solutions

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Description

Learn about the process of caring for cultural material, including artworks, through examination, documentation, research, preservation, and restoration. Understand the guiding principles for Exhibition Conservators to prevent deterioration or damage to artworks.