Some Considerations When Cleaning Robert Ryman’s Oil Paint(ings)

Abstract

We are at present closer to the ‘original state’ of any artwork than anyone in the future will be. This proximity creates a particular urgency to document artworks before significant changes occur through ageing, handling or treatment; and whilst the works can still be interpreted within their contemporary context. Recording the appearance, materials, meaning and artistic intent will enable others to make more informed decisions about the treatment and display of the artworks as they progress through time (and away from their original context and initial material state). This paper explores this concept through the results of case study research of a painting by the American artist Robert Ryman from the collection of the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. Because various other artists worked in a similar abstract style during the same period, Ryman’s works are prone to ill-matched comparison and confusion regarding his artistic intent. During this research interviews with the artist and prominent conservators and scholars of his oeuvre were scrutinized for statements about his artistic intent. This provided a greater understanding of Ryman’s body of work as the basis for formulating some guidelines for consideration when treating similar works by the artist.