The Science of Modern and Contemporary Public Art Preservation: A Walking Tour
Feb
28
2025
Feb
28
2025
Description
Delve into the science behind art conservation, and come learn how UT’s public art collection addresses a wide range of challenges – from summer storms and unexpected winter freezes to nesting birds and spilt coffee. Explore the intricate process of maintaining iconic modern and contemporary art from Landmarks’ collection, including works on long-term loan from The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Tour participants will learn about:
- the delicate balance between preservation, conservation and restoration
- the scientific techniques used to analyze, assess and treat artworks
- the challenges and rewards of preserving modern and contemporary art
Experts Meaghan Perry and Lindsay Hamm Havekost will share insights into the history and conservation of these art works, many of them inspired by science, technology and the natural world:
- Nancy Rubins’ “Monochrome for Austin”
- Deborah Butterfield’s “Vermillion”
- Sol LeWitt’s “Circle with Towers” and “Wall Drawing #520”
- (optional add-on) James Turrell’s Skyspace installation “The Color Inside”
Come learn how Landmarks’ projects are realized on campus, from conception to installation, and all about the Landmarks Preservation Guild on a tour showcasing outstanding art inspired by mathematics and the natural world.
Lindsay Hamm Havekost is the assistant director for collections at Landmarks, the public art program of UT Austin. In this role, Lindsay works with artists and other stakeholders to realize Landmarks’ public art projects, manages the care and conservation of the collection and oversees Landmarks’ Preservation Guild.
Meaghan Perry is the owner and principal conservator of Momentum Art Conservation in Austin, Texas. She holds a B.A. in studio art from UT Austin and an M.A., C.A.S. from the State University of New York College at Buffalo, where she completed a year of advanced study at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.
Location
Monochrome for Austin
Northwest corner of 24th Street and Speedway
Parking: Brazos Garage