July 26, 2021
In an effort to understand how changes in mechanical system operations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic impacted collections environments across institutions, IPI launched a field study through an online submission platform from October through November 2020. Nineteen questions sought to address the role of environmental management at institutions, document changes made to mechanical system operations in response to the pandemic, and collect observed impacts to collections environments resulting from the changes implemented. The results demonstrated a high level of successful implementation of sustainable operations among respondents, especially when coupled with a quality, cross-disciplinary environmental management program. We encourage all collecting institutions to examine their practices and consider ways in which they can work towards even greater success in achieving preservation and sustainability goals. IPI is grateful to those who participated in the field study, your willingness to share enriched our understanding. If you have any questions or comments on the field study, or would like to inquire about available resources to develop a sustainable environmental management program, please contact Kelly Krish, Preventive Conservation Specialist, at kmkpph@rit.edu. This work was funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities as part of a larger education and training project.
The Image Permanence Institute (IPI) in the College of Art and Design (CAD) at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is pleased to announce its opening for a Sustainable Preservation Specialist. The Sustainable Preservation Specialist will provide information and guidance to a range of collecting institutions on the role of environment in preservation, and best practices for sustainable environmental management through a variety of consulting, outreach (teaching and publication), research, and technical support activities.
In May-June 2022, IPI conducted an online survey assessing how collecting institutions are using 3D printing and interacting with 3D printed objects and materials. The survey covered three major areas: 3D printed objects and artwork found in collections, conservation treatments of 3D printed objects, and 3D printing in preservation and access activities, including its use as a tool in conservation treatments of non-3D printed objects, exhibition and display, and collections transportation.
IPI is thrilled to announce that Dr. Marvin Cummings will join the team as Research Scientist in November 2022. Marvin brings extensive research experience from the technology sector, with a solid interdisciplinary background across the physical sciences, engineering, and archeometry.
The Image Permanence Institute received a National Leadership Grant for Museums from the Institute of Museum and Library Services in the amount of $711,598 to support a three-year research project that will study the relationship between equilibrium moisture content (EMC) and the physical stability of plastics and plastic composite artifacts found in museums.