Department Chair
Patrick Ravines
Date of Award
8-2016
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Name
Art Conservation, M.A., C.A.S.
Department
Art Conservation Department
Advisor
Judith C. Walsh
Department Home page
https://artconservation.buffalostate.edu
Abstract
A severely damaged collage dated 1974 by the American sculptor, Louise Nevelson, was treated at the SUNY Buffalo State Art Conservation Department with the goal of restoring it to an exhibitable condition. A brief survey of other Nevelson collages from a similar time period in the artist’s career was conducted to inform the treatment process and provide definitions for an exhibitable condition of the treated collage. Material analysis and characterization provided information about the paper, dyes and adhesives present in the collage, which influenced the treatment course and recommendations for long-term care and display. Treatment consisted of separating the collage components, treating these individually as necessary, and reassembling the collage. Due to the nature of the modern materials used and the extreme distortions, treatment included numerous unorthodox processes, and proved somewhat detrimental to the artist’s materials. These damages were minimized and did not impact the aesthetics of the collage. The treated work was submitted to experts in the field of contemporary art, and specifically Nevelson’s work, for evaluation as an exhibitable collage for the artist’s body of artwork. The 1974 collage by Louise Nevelson was successfully re-defined as an exhibitable work of art.
Recommended Citation
Mikesell, Michal, "Not Quite Black and White: An Investigation and Treatment of a Louise Nevelson Collage" (2016). Art Conservation Master's Projects. 65.
https://digitalcommons.buffalostate.edu/art_con_projects/65
