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The EAC has launched a new Public Art Conservation project to archive, assess, conserve and maintain its public art assets. Conservation and maintenance of public art is integral and inherent to preserving the City of Edmonton’s Civic Art Collection.

When properly conserved, public artworks can dramatically increase in value and importance over time. Conversely, valuable artworks left unattended and neglected can quickly deteriorate to the point of being a safety concern for the public, render the artwork cost ineffective to conserve, require resiting or even to be de-accessioned. Conservation staff will assess and provide related services and recommendations for artworks in the Civic Art Collection.

The Public Art Conservation project began by developing an overall philosophical approach towards conservation and working with living artists that follows the Canadian Association for Conservation of Cultural Property (CCA) Code of Ethics. One aspect of working with living artists is recognizing the importance of the creative process. This can inform how the artwork is treated and cared for in the future, and also allow us to work together to understand the materials and how the artist utilizes them.

When working with a large collection of artworks, it is important to develop an assessment methodology for artwork that already exists. This outlines how the conservation department sets priorities for assessments and examinations, maintenance, and conservation or restoration treatments. The Public Art Conservators are also involved in the early development stages of new public artworks. This includes site visits, working with architects and artists, researching materials and techniques and reviewing project proposals.

Taking Care: a position for the Conservation and Maintenance of Public Art, by Kristy Trinier

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Public Art Conservation: Tips for Artists, by David Turnbull 

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