Help Us Maintain and Keep Our Collections Safe

Conservation of collections is a critical part of what museums do. The Grace Hudson Museum possesses many paintings, baskets, books, photographs, letters, and items of material culture that are close to or exceed one hundred years in age. Collections can be threatened by insect infestation, water, mold, extreme temperatures, overexposure to light, accumulation of grime and particulate matter, or general wear and tear. Without proper conservation practices in place, items can fall into disrepair, rendering them unusable for exhibition and research. Furthermore, there are times when we must borrow art or historical items from individuals or institutions to include in exhibitions. It is not uncommon for borrowed items to need conservation treatment prior to being exhibited. Gifts for conservation allow the Museum to maintain appropriate protocols for care of its collections, and to secure expert conservation help for items in need of cleaning or repair.