LEARN ABOUT THE DRAWINGS' CONSERVATION
“Conservation encompasses all those actions taken toward the long-term preservation of cultural heritage. Activities include examination, documentation, treatment, and preventive care, supported by research and education.”
This multi-year project addressed the dual needs to preserve these important figure studies by “America’s Public Sculptor” Marshall M. Fredericks, while at the same time make the drawings accessible to the public. Out of 129 life figure drawings in the Museum’s collection, twenty-five were selected for restoration and conservation. The chosen drawings, most dating back to the early 1950’s, were identified as highest priority due to their fragile condition and curatorial importance. After conservation the drawings were digitized and are now exhibited, allowing access for researchers, art historians, scholars and general audiences for the first time ever.
During conservation treatment, each drawing was carefully cleaned and old adhesive tape and wrinkles in the paper were removed. Any damage, including holes and tears to the paper were repaired. Below is a short video of some of the techniques that were used in conserving these drawings.
During conservation treatment, each drawing was carefully cleaned and old adhesive tape and wrinkles in the paper were removed. Any damage, including holes and tears to the paper were repaired. Below is a short video of some of the techniques that were used in conserving these drawings.
BEFORE AND AFTER IMAGES
Click one of the 25 images below to see a before and after conservation comparison.
