Collaborative conservation – Case studies in the shared care of museum objects

Successful conservation requires the effort of a collaborative team working to meet both the technical and ethical needs of culturally significant objects. Collaboration among conservators, scientists, engineers and a range of other professionals is illustrated in a selection of case studies from the Australian National Maritime Museum. 

They include the investigation beneath the surface of the 1602 Blaeu Celestial Globe, analysis that revealed a hidden oil painting by famed Australian artist William Frater and research supporting the preservation and reinterpretation of the Cape Bowling Green Lighthouse in time for its 150th birthday. Without the resources that a diverse team of experts can offer, the same high standard of outcomes is unlikely. 

Nick Flood is never more at home than when his hands are dirty, and as Senior Conservator – Special Projects at the Australian National Maritime Museum he is frequently up to his elbows. Nick has conservation expertise in metals, functional objects, maritime archaeology and photographic documentation.

Nicholas Flood placing the Blaeu globe on the operating table. Image by L. Ronai.