Made to last: the conservation of art, a case study of the NETS Victoria touring exhibition

Abstract

Contemporary artists select unconventional materials as well as traditional and modern ones as part of their conceptual practice. This paper discusses the importance of the artist’s original intent and examines the imperative for conservators to comprehend the tangible and intangible content of contemporary art. Current practices for the long term preservation of contemporary art by living artists are documented using the case study of the touring exhibition Made to last: the conservation of art. This case study provides an Australian context for the application of international best practice, as well as highlighting the needs of Australian regional galleries. It is argued that while the artist’s intent is foremost when considering the preservation and conservation of contemporary art, the importance of other stakeholders in the decision making process is also acknowledged. The study employs an interdisciplinary approach engaging artists, gallery professionals and the viewing public through interviews and questionnaires. A greater knowledge of the expectations of gallery professionals and visitors regarding the appearance and longevity of work by living contemporary artists allows more informed strategies for long-term preservation to be developed.