Archival Methods Newsletter • Issue #4
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Portfolio & Cases Boxes Binders & Albums Enclosures Kits & Sleeves Sleeves Frames Board & Paper
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How to... Select a Conservator?
In this issue:
Selecting a conservator for your artwork collection or recently inherited family photographs can be in one word – overwhelming. Learning more about conservation itself is a great idea prior to
HOW TO... • Select a Conservator?
contacting a conservator. The term and field refer to the processes taken toward the long-term preservation of property such as artwork, artifacts, documents, and photographs. The various phases of the process include examining the current condition of the item, treatment if needed and
PRESENTATION
preventative care to slow and hopefully eliminate any further deterioration. Keep in mind that
PRODUCTS conservation is different from restoration, although many people seem to think they are the same. • Museum Board • Conservation Board
Restoration is a type of treatment used in conserving various materials and objects; restoring the current state of the item to its original condition or as close as possible.
• Digital Portfolios • Accent Portfolios
There are a few signs that suggest you should consider contacting a conservator. Answering yes
• Leather Print Folios
to any of the following questions, would qualify for reasons you should reach out for a professional’s opinion. Remember, it doesn’t hurt the collection to have a skilled conservator
ISSUE #4 TIP • Bad vs. Good Frames
ISSUE #4 TERM • Stabilization
examine it and suggest treatment options.
• • • • • •
Wet and/or moldy materials? Flaking or peeling? Pressure sensitive tapes & labels were used on documents or prints? Brittle mat board? Changes in tears, hinges or stains of any kind? Fading?
Q&A • Museum & Japanese Hinges?
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Although there are no certifications needed to become a conservator, you will find the best professionals in the industry have been trained at the graduate school level in conservation and/or worked as apprentices with senior colleagues for many years. When choosing a conservator, do
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not hesitate to ask him or her questions before allowing them to treat your collection. Take your