conservation management
CONSERVATION MANAGEMENTOverview
What is the City of Philadelphia's Conservation Program?
The City of Philadelphia is privileged to have one of the world's most renowned collections of public artwork, including over 1000 sculptures, reliefs, mosaics, stained glass, kinetic works, architectural adornments, paintings, and murals. Many were received as gifts, donations, and purchases, while over 300 were commissioned through the City's Percent for Art Ordinance. The Conservation Program is charged with undertaking professional conservation treatments and repairs to public art in the City's collection. Artworks are selected for conservation based upon severity of condition, prominence, historic and artistic significance, and importance to the local community. Conservation demonstrates the City's respect for the past, increases public awareness of the collection, encourages tourism, and attracts new business to Philadelphia.
Collection Management Program
The Collection Management Program ensures that the City's artworks are preserved for the enjoyment of future generations and visitors. The Collection Management Program oversees temporary and/or permanent relocation of public artwork, short- and long-term planning, creates and maintains inventories and condition assessments, protects public artwork from potential harm, and reviews proposals of new gifts of public art to the City. The program also facilitates public-private partnerships (i.e., Adopt-a-Sculpture Program) to increase the public's awareness of the need to care for our public art and to share the financial obligation of this important undertaking.
FAQ
How are artworks selected for conservation treatment?
Each year the Public Art Program with assistance from the Conservation Advisory Committee identifies and prioritizes artworks in need of treatment. Artworks are selected for conservation treatment based upon severity of condition, prominence, historic and artistic significance, and importance to the local community.
How often do artworks receive treatment?
Every year a selection of artworks receive conservation and/or maintenance treatments. Work generally occurs from early spring to late fall.
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MFR Consultants, Inc.