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Preventative

Two women enclose a paper-wrapped object in a plastic bag to undergo preventative conservation

About


The Preventative Conservation team’s aim is to preserve all works of art by controlling the environment in which they are displayed, stored and transported. This includes maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels despite outside fluctuations, managing light exposure, controlling pests and protecting works from other forms of physical damage.

Preventive conservation comes in at all stages. It includes implementing stringent procedures for storage and exhibition. It includes environmental monitoring and stabilisation. It includes disaster preparedness for the collection. And it includes sharing knowledge with and assisting regional and other galleries when works from the collection are on loan.

Related


#AskaConservator: 2020

A team of conservators in the conservation lab

Our conservators have answered some of the questions you posed on 2020 Ask a Conservator Day.

International Art /  Video

Jackson Pollock's 'Blue poles'
The conservation research project begins

Video still of two men looking at painting.

Published 24 June 2020

Jackson Pollock’s Blue poles 1952 has gone under the microscope for its most comprehensive conservation project to date.

International Art /  Video

Jackson Pollock's 'Blue poles': Under the microscope

Video still of man looking at painting closely through a microscope.

Published 18 September 2020

Exhibition

Gold and the Incas
Lost Worlds of Peru

Gold metalwork plaque with traditional patterning. Off the central form dangles circle and dagger shapes

6 Dec 2013—21 Apr 2014

Exhibition

Abracadabra
The magic in conservation

Ultraviolet image revealing locations of repairs and restorations via differing shades of purple light onhorse statue

28 Jul 2006—26 Nov 2006

Painting

A woman uses a cotton bud to clean a painting

Painting Conservators are responsible for their maintenance and preservation, as well as advising on hanging, handling and installation.

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Yuuma, Gurruburri

The National Gallery acknowledges the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the Kamberri/Canberra region, and recognises their continuous connection to culture, community and Country.

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The National Gallery acknowledges the First Peoples of this land and recognises their continuous connection to culture, community and Country

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