The fundamental goals of the Art Gallery of New South Wales are to acquire, collect and present to the public the finest works of art available. To ensure the collections will be available for future generations the Conservation Department consults, advises, plans and implements strategies that will protect each object.
Time changes the condition of a work of art. Although the Gallery itself provides physical protection for the artworks, this isn't enough on its own to preserve them, as many are made of fragile materials, which are vulnerable to decay and damage and may require extensive treatments.
The Art Gallery of New South Wales employs around a dozen people in its Conservation Department. Professionally trained, most specialise in one area of art conservation. They are members of the Australian Institute for the Conservation of Cultural Material. The Conservation Department is recognised nationally and internationally as a centre of excellence.
More information on the Art Gallery of New South Wales website >
