Secrets of Restoration
Here we present works from the museum鈥檚 collection through the lens of restoration. In the 70 years since the museum first opened, we have worked with numerous conservators to properly conserve the works in our collection. As the word 鈥渞estoration鈥 suggests, it is a set of techniques intended to restore works of art as closely as possible to their original state and maintain them in good condition for many years to come. Observing at close range the conservators who carry out this work, one is amazed not only at their skill in handling and retouching delicate works of art, but also at their ability to observe and carefully ponder the works without even touching them. The work of a conservator, who communicates with voiceless works of art and reveals the characteristics of their techniques and materials, often points the way to the concepts and expression that underlie artists鈥 works.
We hope that through the works on view here, you will be able to vicariously experience the extraordinary skills, sharp eyes, and keen minds of conservators who continually seek access to the hearts of works of art after the artists are gone, and to engage with the secrets they unlock.
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Here we present works from the museum鈥檚 collection through the lens of restoration. In the 70 years since the museum first opened, we have worked with numerous conservators to properly conserve the works in our collection. As the word 鈥渞estoration鈥 suggests, it is a set of techniques intended to restore works of art as closely as possible to their original state and maintain them in good condition for many years to come. Observing at close range the conservators who carry out this work, one is amazed not only at their skill in handling and retouching delicate works of art, but also at their ability to observe and carefully ponder the works without even touching them. The work of a conservator, who communicates with voiceless works of art and reveals the characteristics of their techniques and materials, often points the way to the concepts and expression that underlie artists鈥 works.
We hope that through the works on view here, you will be able to vicariously experience the extraordinary skills, sharp eyes, and keen minds of conservators who continually seek access to the hearts of works of art after the artists are gone, and to engage with the secrets they unlock.