AIC's 52nd Annual Meeting

Conservators often wear many hats: advocate, scientist, artist, curator, designer, mount maker; project manager but what about engineer or rigger? on projects where objects are imbedded within historic buildings or public spaces, removals and relocation are a frequent requirement. With increasing adaptive reuse of spaces and code upgrades to infrastructure, a conservator is needed to consult or advocate in the safe handling, removal, relocation, and treatment of large-scale integrated artworks.

When buildings and public spaces undergo large-scale rehabilitation, embedded historic elements or public art add layers of complexity to the planning and practical needs for the spaces, but also the artworks themselves. Examples include the rebuilding of a public plaza where site specific public art must be temporarily relocated; or when historic interiors must be selectively removed and reinstalled for HVAC and sprinkler upgrades. This is also the case when museums upgrade and artworks that are built into the base building are deconstructed.

Artwork relocation projects are complex, necessitating different trades and skill sets working together to define a solution. Sequencing the removals and reinstallation is a key component for schedules and budgets to stay on track. Involving a conservator early in the design process can help to facilitate a more streamlined process with minimal interruptions and surprises. This presentation will discuss how the combination of technical input provided by a conservator supports or conflict with design and structural engineering requirements as well as, how the role of the conservator often expands into different fields to navigate and direct the required interventions for a successful large-scale move.