Penny Byrne. Tea for Two in Tuvalu, 2011.
Penny Byrne. Tea for Two in Tuvalu, 2011.

Made to last: The conservation of art

20 October 2013 –
2 February 2014

The conservation of art is commonly associated with the restoration of seventeenth century paintings or marble sculptures from antiquity. The use of materials in contemporary art has challenged this perception and enabled a shift in the way conservators interact with artists.
The artists in Made to last pose questions to future conservators; they have been interviewed by curator Sherryn Vardy about their intent, materials, processes and views on conservation. The exhibition also provides a behind-the-scenes look at conservation with demonstrations of how materials can behave over time and under different environments.

Works include neon and master woodblock prints by Brook Andrew, altered ceramics by Penny Byrne, paintings and anamorphic works by Juan Ford, ink on paper and unique objects such as plants on shelves by Ghostpatrol, and video work and installation using unconventional materials including strawberries and cream and raspberry lollies by Claire Anna Watson.