Conservation: Preserving America's artwork for the future

GSA's Fine Arts Program is responsible for the maintenance and preservation of artwork owned by the federal government. The breadth and accessibility of the collection presents a unique set of maintenance and conservation challenges. Unlike the controlled conditions of a gallery or museum, the very public and sometimes remote settings in which many of these artworks are installed exposes them to damaging factors, ranging from weather to vandalism and much more. Regular inspections and assessments ensure that artworks within the collection are properly cared for and maintained.

Sometimes, an artwork will require more comprehensive treatment, due to damage or its age. For these more complex projects, GSA works with professional art conservators who provide highly technical expertise to assess, research, repair, and restore the artwork. While the materials required and the specific methods of treatment used for each art conservation project may vary, the involvement of a professional conservator ensures that each project is held to the highest technical standards, so that the original vision of the artist can be preserved and appreciated by future generations.