Preserving the Collection: Disaster Planning, Response & Recovery

  We are thinking of all the people in Dallas affected by the tornado. If you have questions and need guidance in rescuing artworks, you can call the National Emergency Responders at (202) 661-8068 or TX-CERA at (669)-237-2243. To find a local qualified conservator, use the search function on the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) website:  https://www.culturalheritage.org/membership/find-a-conservator A few quick tips to stabilize and avoid further damage to water-damaged or impact-damaged artworks until you are able to contact a conservator. Remember: your safety comes first! For general guidelines on how to approach an emergency:  https://txcera.org/emergency-response/ For framed artworks: if the artwork is not stuck to the glass, carefully remove from frame in a safe and dry place. If you notice that the paint is lifting off the surface or if you see minute losses, do not unframe. Place painting face up on elevated blocks to provide air circulation...

  There are numerous resources online that provide information and guidance on how to “deal” with mold. This is a brief synthesis. Mold grows on organic materials in suitable conditions: relative humidity higher than 65%, oxygen and lack of air circulation, temperatures preferably in the range of 50 – 95°F. Mold decomposes the organic material (something we are usually trying to safe) and produces substances that can cause illnesses and allergic reactions. During intervention on a mold outbreak: make sure to protect yourself first: wear nitrile gloves and make sure mold does not come into contact with your skin; wash hands after removing gloves; do not eat and drink in an environment where mold is present; wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as FFP3 dust mask and goggles, up to respirators and body suits in case of large outbreaks; try to identify and address the cause(s) of the mold outbreak; create some air circulation, using fans; use dehumidification equi...