AIC's 52nd Annual Meeting

Join us for the 10th Annual AIC Annual Meeting Socratic Dialogue! One of the main issues behind the theme of the AIC 51st Annual Meeting is dealing with the surprising and unexpected in conservation practice. It is noted in the summary that “We may encounter unanticipated materials on an object, have to change treatment methodology as new information comes to light, uncover new aspects of an artistic practice, discover unexpected advantages of a collaboration, or navigate shifting institutional or client priorities. While these types of uncertainty can be exciting, terrifying, and stressful, they present real opportunities for growth and learning.” Lunch will be provided.

That something surprising and unexpected can be considered “terrifying and stressful” has long been a concept in modern conservation practice. This was noticeable following a presentation by Krol and Wei given at the 2022 AIC annual meeting on the treatment of lacunae in historic wall paintings. The talk evoked a long and interesting discussion or debate on how a conservator may or should treat lacunae in general, in works of art and other heritage objects. Until a century ago, it was common to reconstruct missing parts to bring back the original appearance of an object, such as the artistic infilling of a painting, or replacing a missing part of or repairing damage to an object. However, modern conservation theory and codes of ethics have led to reconstruction becoming a less common choice for the reintegration of lacunae in favor of more subtle retouching/infilling techniques, or leaving lacunae untreated. The choice of techniques continues to be a subject of heated debate, especially when important objects are (rediscovered) and in need of treatment. In fact, one could argue that the element of surprise actually often comes after the treatment is completed. The question is, what is it that makes selecting and conducting treatments for lacunae “terrifying and stressful”?

In the continuing series of such dialogues at AIC annual meetings, a Socratic dialogue is thus proposed for members of the conservation profession to reflect on what makes the decision-making process in conservation treatments so stressful, with a focus on lacunae. A Socratic dialogue is a structured form of dialogue in which all participants actively contribute. The purpose of the dialogue is not to answer the questions of how one should treat lacunae. The Socratic method provides a safe, open environment for participants to reflect on what it is that makes the decision-making process so difficult, and to investigate what the essence is behind their own points of view as well as those of others. This session will not be recorded.