Conservation
Care of Collections
The millions of specimens and artifacts in the Archaeology, Ethnology, Life Sciences and Earth Sciences collections provide an invaluable record of Saskatchewan’s past and present diversity, and they must be kept in good condition for future generations. This is the job of the Conservation Section, which protects the collection from damage while in storage or on display, and uses proper techniques to repair and clean the objects when necessary.
Providing a Safe Environment
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The objects in the collection are sensitive to their environment. If the temperature or humidity is too low or too high, the materials can dry out or grow mould. The RSM conservator must monitor and adjust the environment to keep these conditions optimal and stable. The challenge is to find a comfort zone for both the people and the collections! Temperature and humidity aren’t the only concerns of conservators; controlling the environment also involves reducing light levels to minimize light damage, keeping insects away from things like moccasins, blankets, and natural history specimens, decreasing indoor air pollution, and educating the staff and visitors about the effects they may have on the collections when they touch or handle extremely sensitive materials. |
Handling With Care
Since many RSM staff work with the collections, the Conservation Section provides them with advice on suitable storage, exhibit and handling techniques. To store the collections, for example, shelves and cupboards must be padded with inert materials that will cushion but not damage the objects. Special supports are needed to hold awkwardly shaped materials securely while on display in an exhibit. And certain materials, like metals that can corrode from contact with oils on human fingers, must be handled with gloves at all times.
Repair and Restoration
For artifacts that are deteriorating or damaged, the Conservation Section also has methods of stabilizing, and occasionally even restoring them. This may involve stitching a gauntlet back together or painting a heron beak that has been chipped or abraded. The Conservator sometimes performs chemical and instrumental analyses to identify collection materials and causes of deterioration. |
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Collection Management
The Conservation Section also maintains a catalogue of the RSM’s little known fine art collection. The collection contains almost two thousand field sketches, paintings and sculptures produced over the years through research work and exhibit production.
Advisory Role
In addition, the Conservation Section advises other institutions around the province on preservation practices. Through the Museums Association of Saskatchewan, a network of conservators and other museum advisors are available to consult with small museums, instruct in basic skills and answer specific questions.
Many Hats
As you can see, conservators have their hand in all aspects of a museum, from research to exhibits. Whether they’re reminding staff to wear gloves while handling an artifact, vacuuming the insect larvae from a hide on display, or adjusting humidity levels in the storage space, they’re always at work to preserve the collections so that they can be used in future research and enjoyed by the public for years to come.
For further information contact the Museum Conservator
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