Email digest for the Global Conservation Forum (ConsDistList) egroup. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. RE: Sustainability for nitrile gloves in the UK 2. RE: Sustainability for nitrile gloves in the UK 3. Microscope for media ID through glazing 4. Job Opportunity: Research Trainee in Conservation of Paintings/Sculptures or Works on Paper/Photographs at the Lenbachhaus in Munich, Germany 5. Deadline Approaching: Treatment Strategies for Painted Outdoor Sculpture Workshop 6. Fellowship opportunities, The Museum of Modern Art, New York ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1.From: Lynne Harrison Posted: Monday December 1, 2025 8:59 AM Subject: RE: Sustainability for nitrile gloves in the UK Message: Hi Brandon, Earlier this year the UK Museums and Heritage Sustainable Packing Group held a series of Sustainability in Conservation talks at the Courtauld Institute of Art, London. One of the talks was on the subject of 'Wearing Gloves and Sustainability: A practical Approach'. A recording is available on the Courtauld YouTube channel - the talk is second on the recording about 22 mins in https://youtu.be/m7qAgTbbmVQ <https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/maHZCLZzDcYjpwkiBfOTy-wIk?domain=youtu.be> . The speakers, Wendy Millward-Woodiwis and Jessica Crann from Science Museum Group presented on a series of tests on gloves and made recommendations on types and means of reuse and or recycling. The speakers also previously published an article in ICON that gives conservators a good guide about what nitrile gloves to use and buy from perspective of use/requirements and disposal - see issue 5 Winter 2023/24. Hope this helps! ------------------------------ Lynne Harrison Paintings Conservator The National Gallery London United Kingdom ------------------------------ ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 11-28-2025 05:17 From: Brandon Hamer Subject: Sustainability for nitrile gloves in the UK Hi all, We're currently looking into changing our nitrile gloves towards being more sustainable. For gloves which are synthetic, this means reducing the production of landfill waste by using gloves that are biodegradable and/or using gloves that can be recycled. As always there is an interest in keeping costs to a reasonable level. Our context: largely archaeological with some historic material. Scotland specifically, in case that makes a difference with recycling schemes. So far, based on previous posts/threads and from a little digging, I've found the following information: 1). Schemes to recycle gloves The Ansell Nitrile Glove Recycling Programme | TerraCycle UK <https://www.terracycle.com/en-GB/brigades/gloves> Recycle Disposable Gloves | Zero Waste Box™ by TerraCycle <https://shop.terracycle.com/en-GB/products/disposable-gloves-zero-waste-box?_gl=1*1s9nepb*_gcl_au*MTIyODA5ODM5OC4xNzU5NzM3MDUw*_ga*MTk5NDExMjg0OC4xNzU5NzM3MDQ4*_ga_YKZ00C3L4J*czE3NjA2MDg5MjMkbzIkZzEkdDE3NjA2MDkwMDIkajU2JGwxJGg1NjkwMzU5NDc.> The Ansell scheme requires that the institution buys the Ansell gloves and the costs of recycling appear to be included in the cost of the gloves. The second scheme, with a purchased recycling box, is similar but doesn't seem to restrict the specific gloves that are used (aside from them being vinyl, nitrile or latex). Does anyone have direct experience of using these or similar services. 2. Biodegradable nitrile gloves Unigloves Biotouch Nitrile Work Gloves 100pk - SafetyGloves.co.uk <https://www.safetygloves.co.uk/GM0082.html?msclkid=bbe2f9e2628b1f291f6991011b562d86> SHOWA 7500pf gloves - Search <https://www.bing.com/search?pglt=163&q=SHOWA+7500pf+gloves&cvid=6e19f6fddccc4e0ebc4ba36934eee29d&gs_lcrp=EgRlZGdlKgYIABBFGDkyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQABhAMggIAhDpBxj8VdIBBzc4NmowajGoAgCwAgA&FORM=ANNAB1&PC=LCTS> The Biotouch gloves come with certificates for: EN 374 (Standard for Chemical Resistance Gloves) EN 455 (Standard for Medical Gloves) EN 455-1 (Freedom from Holes) << I think this might be a step up from our current gloves! EN 455-2 (Physical Properties) The Showa gloves have been noted on this forum as having desirable qualities: lack of residues, good performance in Oddy tests) and are biodegradable, thicker, and suitable for handling sensitive art/metallic surfaces. These do have an increased purchase cost, but are then biodegradable in the ground and involve no additional organisation/costs for recycling. As it's still a plastic there is a concern over what 'biodegradable' really means - are they merely breaking down into microplastics? Another concern is that these gloves will be less suitable for working with solvents - even the non-biodegradable nitrile gloves deteriorate after exposure to ethanol or acetone and perform poorly against white spirits and stronger non-polar solvents. It is noted that the biotouch gloves do have chemical resistance certificates, but how applicable these are more specifically to conservation use is not too clear. Does anyone have any further insights into these biodegradable gloves? Any other input or information is greatly appreciated. Thank you, ------------------------------ Brandon Hamer Conservator AOC Archaeology Group Edinburgh United Kingdom ------------------------------ 2.From: Katharine Fugett Posted: Monday December 1, 2025 12:36 PM Subject: RE: Sustainability for nitrile gloves in the UK Message: Hi Brandon, The AIC Sustainability Committee looked into some glove recycling options as part of our 2022 AIC News article (Volume 47, Issue 5) on nitrile gloves and their sustainability and use which can be found here: https://www.culturalheritage.org/resources/resources-for-conservation-professionals/publications/aic-news?e02bf88d-c56e-46ba-8ee1-0195aa96c9dc=eyJsaWJyYXJ5ZW50cnkiOiJmMDlkYjI3Zi00NzRlLTQxMzMtOTFlYi0wMTk3ZjZjNDNmYjEifQ%3D%3D <https://www.culturalheritage.org/resources/resources-for-conservation-professionals/publications/aic-news?e02bf88d-c56e-46ba-8ee1-0195aa96c9dc=eyJsaWJyYXJ5ZW50cnkiOiJmMDlkYjI3Zi00NzRlLTQxMzMtOTFlYi0wMTk3ZjZjNDNmYjEifQ%3D%3D> Showa gloves will not biodegrade in your typical backyard compost. They must be disposed of in an industrial compost setting which at least in the US is a landfill. What makes them different from your typical nitrile glove is they have been manufactured to biodegrade faster. In the end, they are still ending up in a landfill. I personally find this to be greenwashing and dont love it as a sustainable solution. Id be curious to hear if you have better infrastructure for this in Scotland and how Showa recommends you dispose of them over there. Good luck! Best, Kate -- Professional Associate, American Institute for ConservationPreventive Conservator, National September11 Memorial & Museum ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 11/28/2025 5:17:00 AM From: Brandon Hamer Subject: Sustainability for nitrile gloves in the UK Hi all, We're currently looking into changing our nitrile gloves towards being more sustainable. For gloves which are synthetic, this means reducing the production of landfill waste by using gloves that are biodegradable and/or using gloves that can be recycled. As always there is an interest in keeping costs to a reasonable level. Our context: largely archaeological with some historic material. Scotland specifically, in case that makes a difference with recycling schemes. So far, based on previous posts/threads and from a little digging, I've found the following information: 1). Schemes to recycle gloves The Ansell Nitrile Glove Recycling Programme | TerraCycle UK <https://www.terracycle.com/en-GB/brigades/gloves> Recycle Disposable Gloves | Zero Waste Box™ by TerraCycle <https://shop.terracycle.com/en-GB/products/disposable-gloves-zero-waste-box?_gl=1*1s9nepb*_gcl_au*MTIyODA5ODM5OC4xNzU5NzM3MDUw*_ga*MTk5NDExMjg0OC4xNzU5NzM3MDQ4*_ga_YKZ00C3L4J*czE3NjA2MDg5MjMkbzIkZzEkdDE3NjA2MDkwMDIkajU2JGwxJGg1NjkwMzU5NDc.> The Ansell scheme requires that the institution buys the Ansell gloves and the costs of recycling appear to be included in the cost of the gloves. The second scheme, with a purchased recycling box, is similar but doesn't seem to restrict the specific gloves that are used (aside from them being vinyl, nitrile or latex). Does anyone have direct experience of using these or similar services. 2. Biodegradable nitrile gloves Unigloves Biotouch Nitrile Work Gloves 100pk - SafetyGloves.co.uk <https://www.safetygloves.co.uk/GM0082.html?msclkid=bbe2f9e2628b1f291f6991011b562d86> SHOWA 7500pf gloves - Search <https://www.bing.com/search?pglt=163&q=SHOWA+7500pf+gloves&cvid=6e19f6fddccc4e0ebc4ba36934eee29d&gs_lcrp=EgRlZGdlKgYIABBFGDkyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQABhAMggIAhDpBxj8VdIBBzc4NmowajGoAgCwAgA&FORM=ANNAB1&PC=LCTS> The Biotouch gloves come with certificates for: EN 374 (Standard for Chemical Resistance Gloves) EN 455 (Standard for Medical Gloves) EN 455-1 (Freedom from Holes) << I think this might be a step up from our current gloves! EN 455-2 (Physical Properties) The Showa gloves have been noted on this forum as having desirable qualities: lack of residues, good performance in Oddy tests) and are biodegradable, thicker, and suitable for handling sensitive art/metallic surfaces. These do have an increased purchase cost, but are then biodegradable in the ground and involve no additional organisation/costs for recycling. As it's still a plastic there is a concern over what 'biodegradable' really means - are they merely breaking down into microplastics? Another concern is that these gloves will be less suitable for working with solvents - even the non-biodegradable nitrile gloves deteriorate after exposure to ethanol or acetone and perform poorly against white spirits and stronger non-polar solvents. It is noted that the biotouch gloves do have chemical resistance certificates, but how applicable these are more specifically to conservation use is not too clear. Does anyone have any further insights into these biodegradable gloves? Any other input or information is greatly appreciated. Thank you, ------------------------------ Brandon Hamer Conservator AOC Archaeology Group Edinburgh United Kingdom ------------------------------ 3.From: Emily Cloutier Posted: Monday December 1, 2025 12:36 PM Subject: Microscope for media ID through glazing Message: Hello all, I am looking for some kind of portable microscope (digital or analog) with a longer depth of field. Basically, I am looking for something that would allow me to examine framed graphic and photographic works through glazing, mostly for media identification. I have a couple of pocket microscopes that are great, but the subject has to be up against the microscope to be able to see anything, so even a 1/4" gap + thickness of the glazing is enough to make them useless with framed works. Has anyone solved this problem? Thanks! Emily ------------------------------ Emily Cloutier Conservator - Art on Paper and Photographs Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal Montreal Canada ------------------------------ 4.From: Isabel Gebhardt Posted: Monday December 1, 2025 2:08 PM Subject: Job Opportunity: Research Trainee in Conservation of Paintings/Sculptures or Works on Paper/Photographs at the Lenbachhaus in Munich, Germany Message: The Städtische Galerie im Lenbachhaus und Kunstbau München is looking for a research trainee in the field of conservation of paintings and sculptures, or works on paper and photographs, to start on the 1st of March 2026. Application deadline: 31 January 2026 The research traineeship serves to promote young professionals in the field of conservation and restoration. It offers the opportunity to gain solid, museum-specific professional experience immediately after completion of studies and serves to further consolidate your specialist expertise. The traineeship is designed for a duration of 24 months on a full-time basis, including a three-month probationary period. What motivates you: You would like to contribute to the conservation team with a high level of commitment and organisational competence. Your aim is to develop the care of the collection in all its diverse facets and to contribute to research projects while at the same time expanding your knowledge. What we expect from you: A completed academic degree (Master's or equivalent) in the field of conservation / restoration (of paintings and sculptures, or works on paper and photographs), is required. We are looking for a responsible and team-oriented person with initial practical experience in museum and exhibition work, and in the conservation of artworks. What we offer: · Comprehensive insights into the various areas which comprise a dynamic museum whose collection focuses on works of the Blue Rider, 19th-century art, classical modernism, post-war modernism, and contemporary art. · Continued training through the conservation and restoration of works from the collection, the development of conservation concepts, as well as their practical implementation and documentation. Participation in the care of works in exhibitions and in the loan programme, as well as in conducting scientific and art-technological examinations. A Access to all museum-relevant areas of the institution. · A work load which is varied with a high level of personal responsibility. · Remuneration amounting to half of remuneration group 13, level 1 TVöD (Collective Agreement for the Public Service) in the first year and half of remuneration group 13, level 2 of the TVöD in the second year. · Partial tax-free travel allowance for the IsarCardJob / DB Jobticket or the DeutschlandticketJob. · Flexible working hours and the option for partial remote work. · The opportunity to apply for accommodations in the municipal residential facilities. Do you have questions? Mr Daniel Oggenfuss, Deputy Head of the Conservation and Exhibition Organisation Department Tel. +49 (0)89-233 56671 or [email protected], will be happy to provide you with further information. Please send your application (as a single PDF-document, max. 10 MB) with relevant supporting documents (cover letter, CV, qualifications, etc.) by 31 January 2026 to: [email protected] The Lenbachhaus is committed to equality, equal opportunities and anti-discrimination, including in hiring practices. We therefore expect all applicants to demonstrate respect and competence with regards to equality and diversity. ------------------------------ Isabel Gebhardt (M.A.) Head of Conservation and Exhibition Organisation Department Städtische Galerie im Lenbachhaus und Kunstbau München Luisenstraße 33, 80333 Munich Germany Germany ------------------------------ 5.From: Ellen Moody Posted: Monday December 1, 2025 3:14 PM Subject: Deadline Approaching: Treatment Strategies for Painted Outdoor Sculpture Workshop Message: Hello all! We've extended the deadline for our workshop Treatment Strategies for Painted Outdoor Sculpture (taking place in Australia next year), to December 16. Please consider applying or sharing with anyone who might be interested. The Getty Conservation Institute, in partnership with the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), invites applications for our five-day, in-person workshop in Melbourne, Australia, April 27-May 1, 2026. This program is designed for conservators seeking to deepen their understanding of the unique challenges posed by painted outdoor sculpture--works that combine complex materials, large scale, and exposure to harsh environmental conditions. Through lectures, site visits, and hands-on exercises, participants will explore strategies for assessing condition, planning treatments, and extending maintenance cycles. Real-world case studies from NGV's sculpture garden and Melbourne's public artworks will anchor discussions on coating failures, paint systems, logistics, and sustainability. Practical sessions on mockups will allow experimentation with localized techniques that delay full repainting. The curriculum draws on expertise from leading conservators and paint industry professionals. Topics include project management, graffiti removal, retouching, safety practices, and collaboration with artists' estates and stakeholders. Space is limited to 24 participants selected on the basis of demonstrated need and applicability of the workshop content to their current or future work. Dates: April 27-May 1, 2026 Location: National Gallery of Australia, Melbourne, Australia Fee: $800 (includes materials, lunches, and group events) Application Deadline: December 16, 2025 Learn more and apply: gty.art/POS_Wkshp <https://gty.art/POS_Wkshp> ------------------------------ Ellen Moody Project Specialist Getty Conservation Institute Los Angeles United States ------------------------------ 6.From: Kate Lewis Posted: Monday December 1, 2025 4:25 PM Subject: Fellowship opportunities, The Museum of Modern Art, New York Message: The David Booth Conservation Department at The Museum of Modern Art, New York is pleased to offer two-year fellowships, starting September 2026, in the specialties of Media <https://recruiting.ultipro.com/MUS1002MOMA/JobBoard/9dbfa465-a36a-46c3-b31e-4929830ab266/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=712c889d-d333-40c1-9a6f-ca3e8718efe1>, Objects <https://recruiting.ultipro.com/MUS1002MOMA/JobBoard/9dbfa465-a36a-46c3-b31e-4929830ab266/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=e01a44d5-fd87-47e3-9e70-f22187d30086>, and Paintings <https://recruiting.ultipro.com/MUS1002MOMA/JobBoard/9dbfa465-a36a-46c3-b31e-4929830ab266/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=32e2bfa5-2229-482d-8624-fe665561de11> Conservation, and Conservation Science <https://recruiting.ultipro.com/MUS1002MOMA/JobBoard/9dbfa465-a36a-46c3-b31e-4929830ab266/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=8b81f834-a045-4317-8817-5c3db8baaa80>. The Museum of Modern Art is committed to nurturing the next generation of curators, art historians, conservators, scientists and other arts professionals. This Conservation Fellowship is part of a distinctive museum-wide fellowship program that offers opportunities for training and development through immersion in the Museum's departments, working alongside and mentored by experienced staff members. All fellows also participate in a core methods and practice program with MoMA staff and invited guests which explores object-based research and inquiry; public engagement in a museum context; and arts leadership and the role of cultural institutions. Salary: $54,000 (plus benefits and vacation), with $3,500 annually for research and travel. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with a deadline of January 4, 2026 at 11.59pm EST. Please visit MoMA Jobs <https://recruiting.ultipro.com/MUS1002MOMA/JobBoard/9dbfa465-a36a-46c3-b31e-4929830ab266/?q=&o=postedDateDesc> for more information, and do be in touch with any questions [email protected] <[email protected]> ------------------------------ Kate Lewis Chief Conservator The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) New York United States ------------------------------ You are subscribed to "Global Conservation Forum (ConsDistList)" as [email protected]. To change your subscriptions, go to http://community.culturalheritage.org/preferences?section=Subscriptions. To unsubscribe from this community discussion, go to https://community.culturalheritage.org/HigherLogic/eGroups/Unsubscribe.aspx?UserKey=d16eaa87-0f69-494b-9f2f-303dbc1222e1&sKey=fab9aa4f27a04c5d876e&GroupKey=757a8f16-505f-4323-8e74-e376757aa9f7.
