Email digest for the Global Conservation Forum (ConsDistList) egroup. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Conservation Position - Graz University Library 2. RE: FREE WEBINAR – “Materials for Preserving Paper Collections” 3. RE: Icon Dynamic Objects Group - Big Stuff 2025, 24 June online meeting 4. SAVE THE DATE - Neon workshop and symposium in Chicago 5. RE: Possible concerns regarding nylon stockings in mount preparation 6. Postgraduate position at Yale University: Postgraduate Associate in Museum Collections Assessment and Materials Analysis 7. Grant Deadline Extended! Canadian Association for Conservation Annual Conference 8. RE: Survey for Conservators of Wax Seals ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1.From: Theresa Lupi Posted: Friday June 20, 2025 6:35 AM Subject: Conservation Position - Graz University Library Message: We are seeking a bilingual (German and English) book conservator for one year to work on an exciting project (job extendable up to 3 years). Application deadline: 30 June 2025. See details here: https://jobs.uni-graz.at/de/jobs/c68820df-246e-0e8e-65b4-681074130a0b <https://jobs.uni-graz.at/de/jobs/c68820df-246e-0e8e-65b4-681074130a0b> Dr Theresa Zammit Lupi PhD (London) ACR Leiterin der Restaurierung | Head of Book Conservation Sondersammlungen | Special Collections Universittsbibliothek | University Library Universitt Graz | University of Graz Universittsplatz 3a/I, 8010 Graz Tel.: 43/(0)316/3803112 E-Mail: [email protected] <[email protected]> Web: https://uni-graz.at <https://uni-graz.at/> Graz Mummy Book (uni-graz.at) <https://mummybook.uni-graz.at/en/> <https://www.facebook.com/UniversitaetGraz/> <https://www.instagram.com/universityofgraz/> <https://twitter.com/UniGraz> <https://www.youtube.com/user/unigraz> <https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-graz/> <https://uni-graz.at/> Bitte denken Sie an die Umwelt, bevor Sie dieses E-Mail drucken. Danke! Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail. Thank you! 2.From: Diana Bencatel Posted: Friday June 20, 2025 6:36 AM Subject: RE: FREE WEBINAR – “Materials for Preserving Paper Collections” Message: Hi! I know some people weren't able to open the webinar registration page. To try and solve that, here's another link you can use to sign up (for free): https://subscribepage.io/sQxNln <https://subscribepage.io/sQxNln> Warm wishes, Diana ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 6/11/2025 6:42:00 AM From: Diana Bencatel Subject: FREE WEBINAR – “Materials for Preserving Paper Collections” I'm thrilled to invite you to my FREE WEBINAR on "Materials for Preserving Paper Collections". This online training will take place on June 24th at 3:00 PM (London time). Register here: https://conservacaonumclique.com/materials25 <https://conservacaonumclique.com/materials25> In this free session, I'll share practical guidance on tools and equipment - including some low-cost options - that support key conservation actions, from environmental monitoring and cleaning to proper storage. When you sign up, you'll also receive my exclusive eBook: "7 Key Actions for Preserving Paper Collections." Can't attend live? No problem! Register anyway and you'll get access to the recording for 72 hours after the event. 3.From: Francoise Collanges Posted: Friday June 20, 2025 8:27 AM Subject: RE: Icon Dynamic Objects Group - Big Stuff 2025, 24 June online meeting Message: Still some days to register and join us online at the Icon Dynamic Objects Group to discover Big Stuff 2025! ------------------------------ Francoise Collanges Consultant Francoise Collanges Conservation Ixelles Belgium ------------------------------ ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 06-16-2025 12:00 From: Francoise Collanges Subject: Icon Dynamic Objects Group - Big Stuff 2025, 24 June online meeting Dear all, Join Icon Dynamic Objects Group and members of the Big Stuff team, on Tuesday 24 June, 10-11 am BST, to talk about the upcoming Big Stuff Conference, taking place in Ghent (Belgium) in October 2025, about conserving skills and machines.Big Stuff Heritage conference has been on since 2004. We are keen to make you discover what is on the program this year and discuss our common interests in dynamic objects and industrial heritage. This online event is free, you can register here: https://www.icon.org.uk/events/icon-dynamic-objects-group-big-stuff-2025.html ------------------------------ Francoise Collanges Chair of Icon's Dynamic Objects Group Consultant in conservation Ixelles Belgium ------------------------------ 4.From: Sylvie Pénichon Posted: Friday June 20, 2025 8:45 PM Subject: SAVE THE DATE - Neon workshop and symposium in Chicago Message: The Art Institute of Chicago is hosting "The Persistent Glow: The Conservation and Continuity of Neon Artworks" a two-day workshop and symposium bringing together collections care professionals and neon artists/fabricators to cover the multi-faceted challenges when installing and caring for neon artworks and signs. There is an optional third day option for those attending the workshop. October 14: An all-day workshop will be led by Taylor Healy, Meryl Pataky, Joy Bloser, and Ellen Moody. The workshop leaders will present a brief lecture to familiarize participants with neon technology and terminology. Following the lecture, participants will be guided through neon assessment and documentation and participate in hands-on installation. The workshop is free. It will be limited to 13 participants and priority will be given to collections professionals tasked with installation and care of neon objects institutions or collections. October 15: An all-day symposium will include presentations from neon experts to share their experiences with the preservation, restoration, and installation of neon artworks. The presenters will participate in a panel discussion to talk about the networks of care that are required to keep neon objects and the craft alive. Q+A to follow. The symposium is free and open to anyone interested in the past, present, and future of neon creations. October 16: Local neon studio, Lightwriters <https://www.neon-chicago.com/> will host a special half-day neon bending event in their space for participants to gain first-hand exposure to the process of bending glass and the decision-making/skills that goes into creation. Participants will leave this event with a bent glass unit, packed for travel. The bending demo will be limited to 8 participants, with priority given to those attending the workshop and symposium. Participants are expected to cover the costs of the event $420 for a bent glass object (does not light up) or $600 for a functional neon artwork. REGISTRATION AND PROGRAM DETAILS WILL FOLLOW WITH THE FORMAL INVITATION ------------------------------ Sylvie Pénichon The Art Institute of Chicago ------------------------------ 5.From: Gail Niinimaa Posted: Friday June 20, 2025 8:46 PM Subject: RE: Possible concerns regarding nylon stockings in mount preparation Message: We did a project many years ago using pantyhose for shoe mounts and supports - it was very successful and we were able to source a huge box of "seconds" from the manufacturer Phantom- in Toronto- it was a great resource but not sure they do that anymore! Gail Niinimaa Niinimaa Enterprises IncTextile Conservation and Collections Management 403.605.5320 ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 6/18/2025 6:09:00 AM From: Katie Sabo Subject: RE: Possible concerns regarding nylon stockings in mount preparation Hi Jane, The museum standard for mounting costume and accessories are regular nylon pantyhose, the kind available at any dept store. For the costume mounting course at FIT we source them from Hanes, but they are becoming harder and harder to source since pantyhose are no longer standard wear. There are no conservation suppliers that sell pantyhose. Another option is basting the padded layers together on the mount and covering with a thicker cotton jersey. This will likely be much more secure during the exhibition especially for a heavy object like a gas mask. ------------------------------ Katie Sabo Katie Sabo Textile Conservation LLC NYC | Princeton NJ ------------------------------ ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 06-17-2025 10:43 From: Jane Hammond Subject: Possible concerns regarding nylon stockings in mount preparation Good morning, I'm seeking community comments and experiences on using nylon pantyhose as a layer to shape a carved and padded Ethafoam rounded mount for a WWII gas mask. The object may be displayed in a case. Is department store nylon pantyhose a stable knit material to use as a shaping layer (after washing and removing the elastic waistband)? I realize Spandex should be avoided. Are the dyes used to color pantyhose a concern? (I've read aluminum sulfate is sometimes used in the process). Would white pantyhose be a better choice?. Are there conservation suppliers selling stabile nylon knits for museum use? Do department store varieties work? Is cotton jersey a better alternative? Thanks in advance for any feedback or recommendations offered! You can comment directly with Claire Curran, if you prefer: [email protected] <[email protected]> Jane Hammond (Now happily retired) 6.From: Aniko Bezur Posted: Friday June 20, 2025 8:48 PM Subject: Postgraduate position at Yale University: Postgraduate Associate in Museum Collections Assessment and Materials Analysis Message: Title of the Position: Postgraduate Associate in Museum Collections Assessment and Materials Analysis Department and School: Yale Peabody Museum, Yale Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage Overview of the Position The Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (IPCH) and the Yale Peabody Museum (YPM) are seeking a postgraduate associate for a one-year, full-time position to contribute to a collaborative project to study the risks associated with hazardous materials in the museum's collections. This project is part of a longer-term initiative to enhance collections care and promote safe access for staff, researchers, and the communities interacting with these collections. Historically, both organic and inorganic pesticides have been utilized in museum collections, particularly those comprising organic materials such as textiles, wood, plant fibers, skin, and natural history specimens, to safeguard against pests. Furthermore, some objects were made from materials now recognized as posing health risks. Though protocols exist to minimize occupational exposure to these materials, accessible information remains limited, especially regarding potential dangers to non-museum staff or the broader public. This position offers an opportunity to gain practical training in heritage science, preventive conservation, and environmental health and safety practices within a museum context. The postgraduate associate will gain experience working with collections, instrumentation, and interdisciplinary teams. Working under the supervision of IPCH and YPM staff, the postgraduate associate will: Review historical and current literature on the use of pesticides in museum collections and methods for their detection. Begin identifying which YPM collections may have higher levels of hazardous material exposure by analyzing collection records and treatment histories, and through consultations with museum staff. Learn how X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy can help identify elements associated with inorganic pesticides and distinguish them from object components or surface treatments containing the same elements. Assist in developing and refining protocols for using handheld XRF instruments to screen objects, storage furniture, and housing materials. Conduct XRF measurements on objects and housing materials. Curate and analyze the resulting data. In consultation with Yale's Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) department, explore complementary surface testing methods (e.g., direct measurement and wipe sampling) and airborne exposure assessment. Gain familiarity with industrial hygiene considerations, including potential exposure routes (dermal, inhalation), transfer pathways (e.g., to gloves or hands), appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and disposal of contaminated housing materials and PPE. In consultation with YPM and EHS staff, develop communication tools and safe handling guidelines that identify hazards and outline suitable mitigation measures for different user groups. Education The project complements degree programs in chemistry, environmental sciences, cultural heritage and natural history conservation, industrial hygiene and occupational health, and related fields by offering practical, interdisciplinary research experience for recent graduates with a bachelor's or master's degree. This will prepare the postgraduate associate for further education in the above fields. Training The postgraduate associate will receive hands-on training in safe collection handling practices, XRF spectroscopy for detecting elements associated with hazardous materials, surface sampling, data management, and analysis. Online short courses, including laboratory safety and X-ray safety training, must be completed to comply with environmental health and safety requirements. Through their work with Yale EHS, they will learn about risk assessment and industrial hygiene practices. Mentoring The associate will be mentored by staff at IPCH and YPM through regular check-ins, collaborative project work, and opportunities to attend lab meetings and seminars. They will work closely with a natural history conservator, conservation scientists, museum professionals, and Environmental Health and Safety colleagues. They will also join the cohort of emerging conservation professionals at Yale and participate in events organized by the Committee for Educational Opportunities in Conservation. Appointment information · Anticipated appointment dates: September 1st, 2025 – August 31st, 2026 · The postgraduate associate position is a full-time, 12-month position. · Salary will be commensurate with skills and experience, in the range of $45,000-$55,000. Allowable relocation costs up to $2500 will be reimbursed. For a description of benefits, including health insurance, please visit https://postdocs.yale.edu/current-postgrads/benefits-and-paid-time. Support for travel associated with projects is provided. · The postgraduate associate will be based primarily at Yale's West Campus, in the Collection Studies Center (building 900), although occasional work at the Yale Peabody Museum is expected. There is a free shuttle service between Yale's campuses, and parking at West Campus is free. Required qualifications · A bachelor's, master's, or equivalent degree from a recognized institution of higher learning, with at most two years of relevant prior post-degree research experience. · Competency using Windows operating systems and spreadsheets. Ability to record, examine, analyze, and compile data. · Good attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational and time management skills. · Solid verbal and written communication skills. Desired/preferred qualifications and skills · A bachelor's or master's degree in physical sciences or engineering (chemistry, environmental science, geology), cultural heritage or natural history conservation, industrial hygiene, occupational health, or related fields. · Experience or familiarity with operating a handheld XRF instrument, including safe data collection, X-ray safety protocols, and data interpretation. Experience or familiarity with other analytical techniques, such as FTIR, Raman, and SEM-EDS, is preferred but not required. · Experience working with delicate objects and/or specimens, ideally in a museum, gallery, library, or other cultural context. Application process · Review of applications will begin on July 7, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. · Send an email or document (cover letter) describing your interest in the position, your CV, and the names of and contact information for two references to Anikó Bezur ([email protected]), Wallace S. Wilson Director of Scientific Research, Heritage Science Research Laboratory, Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage. · We welcome and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. About the Yale Peabody Museum and the Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage The Yale Peabody Museum (https://peabody.yale.edu/ <https://peabody.yale.edu/>) was founded in 1866, is one of the world's oldest and largest university museums of its kind. Home to over 14 million objects and specimens across 10 distinct divisions, it preserves and displays more than four billion years of Earth and human history. Famous for its discoveries of iconic dinosaurs like Triceratops, Brontosaurus, and Stegosaurus, the Museum is the birthplace of paleontology. Its mission, advancing understanding of the world and our place within it, is reflected in the work done by faculty and staff in research, exhibitions, and education. The museum's collections are housed in four buildings: the Peabody building, the Environmental Sciences Center, the Kline Geology Laboratory, and the Collections Study Center at Yale's West Campus. At West Campus, the museum occupies the Shared Conservation Laboratory, together with the Yale University Art Gallery, the Yale Center for British Art, the Yale University Library, and the Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage. The Conservation Department at the museum works collaboratively with all the museum's divisions and departments, as well as with the other cultural heritage units at Yale, to preserve the collections, understand their environmental needs, and create policies for handling and interacting with the objects and specimens. The Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (IPCH) at Yale University (https://ipch.yale.edu/) is a center for interdisciplinary research, conservation, and education dedicated to preserving cultural heritage. Located on Yale's West Campus, IPCH collaborates with scholars, students, and the university's collections, including those at the Yale University Art Gallery, Yale Peabody Museum, Yale Center for British Art, and Yale Library. The Heritage Science Research Lab at IPCH investigates the materials and deterioration of objects in Yale's museums and libraries, contributing to their care, exhibition, and use in teaching and research. The lab also develops new tools and methods to support cultural heritage research. Analytical facilities include handheld and benchtop XRF, optical and vibrational microscopy (FTIR, Raman), SEM/EDS, GC/MS, UV-visible spectroscopy, and equipment for mechanical testing and accelerated aging. ------------------------------ Aniko Bezur, PhD Wallace S. Wilson Director of Scientific Research Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, Yale University West Haven United States ------------------------------ 7.From: Jessica Lafrance-Hwang Posted: Friday June 20, 2025 8:48 PM Subject: Grant Deadline Extended! Canadian Association for Conservation Annual Conference Message: The Canadian Association for the Conservation of Cultural Property (CAC) conference is taking place October 20-25, 2025 at the Canadian Museum of History. This edition is a milestone gathering for us in the National Capital Region, celebrating the 50th annual conference. Full program and registration will be available mid July at Our Conferences - Canadian Association for Conservation of Cultural Property <https://www.cac-accr.ca/our-conferences/> CAC Members can apply for a Conference Grant to cover travel and accommodation costs. The Conference Grant deadline is extended to July 15, 2025. Log in to your CAC account to access application forms on our website. (https://www.cac-accr.ca/become-a-member/#grants-and-bursaries <https://www.cac-accr.ca/become-a-member/#grants-and-bursaries>) ------------------------------ Jessica Lafrance-Hwang 2025 CAC Conference Chair & Manager, Conservation and Preservation Canadian Museum of History Gatineau, Canada ------------------------------ 8.From: Keti Nikolaeva Posted: Friday June 20, 2025 8:54 PM Subject: RE: Survey for Conservators of Wax Seals Message: Hi Lidia, I wanted to share my experience with wax stamp restoration, a topic I've been really interested in. I've spent some time researching and trying out different methods, and I've learned quite a bit along the way. I think it could be useful for others who are just getting started or looking to learn more. I'm attaching an article I wrote that sums up what I've discovered. Hopefully, you'll find it interesting or know someone it might help. I'm happy to hear any feedback or continue the conversation if you're interested. https://raco.cat/index.php/UNICUM/article/view/431640/526010 <https://raco.cat/index.php/UNICUM/article/view/431640/526010> https://www.raco.cat/index.php/UNICUM/article/view/431640 <https://www.raco.cat/index.php/UNICUM/article/view/431640> Best regards, Keti ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 6/19/2025 7:29:00 AM From: Lidia Nowak Subject: Survey for Conservators of Wax Seals Help Needed for My Master’s Thesis! I’m currently working on my master’s thesis and would greatly appreciate your support! I’ve created a short survey for WAX SEALS CONSERVATORS that will contribute to my research, and your insights would be incredibly valuable. It only takes a 5 minutes to complete and all responses are anonymous. Link to the survey:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DAt6KntHePDylWZQ2P2QNm9zYkPU4UW8Qi-6bBHObP0/edit#responses <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DAt6KntHePDylWZQ2P2QNm9zYkPU4UW8Qi-6bBHObP0/edit#responses> Whether or not the topic is directly related to your field, your participation will really help me move forward with my academic journey. Feel free to share this survey with your network – the more responses, the better! Thank you in advance for your time and support! ------------------------------ [Lidia] [Nowak] [Conservator] [National Archives in Warsaw] [Warsaw] [Poland] ------------------------------ You are subscribed to "Global Conservation Forum (ConsDistList)" as [email protected]. To change your subscriptions, go to http://community.culturalheritage.org/preferences?section=Subscriptions. 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