ICN Masterclass dry cleaning methods

The ICN just completed a 3-year study of dry cleaning methods applied on unvarnished modern paintings. Materials´ properties, cleaning efficiency and (short and long term) side effects were investigated for c. 25 dry cleaning materials such as Groom stick, PVC erasers, smoke sponge or Akapad (formerly known as Wishab). The ICN organises this masterclass to share its approach, results and conclusions and keep moving forward with this project.

The first day of this course will allow each participant to become acquainted with 10 to 12 different dry cleaning materials from the microfiber cloth, plasticine, sponge and eraser groups. The second day will focus on investigating further selected results and evaluations of the first day.

Participants will be able to practice and discuss their findings at each stage of this workshop. Tests and evaluations of the materials will be performed on oil-paint and gouache samples, as well as on (a) real painting surface(s). The course emphasizes on communication and observation. Furthermore, participants will have the opportunity to form their own opinions on dry cleaning methods, and this way extend the range of their best treatment practices beyond the common usage of solvent-based approaches.

Conservators are encouraged to bring their own dry cleaning materials and compare them to the materials presented.

Teachers:
Maude Daudin Schotte, free-lance painting conservator
Henk Schellen, Technical University Eindhoven
Klaas-Jan van den Berg, ICN-senior researcher and projectleader

Targetgroup: Painting conservators & senior painting conservators

Practical information

07th june 2010 - 8th june 2010, 09.00 - 17.00, ICN Ateliergebouw, Amsterdam

Price: 455 euro
Participants: 10

Registration: Contact Angeniet Boeve, angeniet.boeve@icn.nl or website ICN.