Research and analysis is carried out using a variety of methods such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, microscopy, ultra-violet fluorescence, and paint analysis and this detective work can tell us a great deal about an artist’s materials and techniques. It can also reveal secrets invisible to the naked eye, such as compositions hidden beneath surface of a painting, changes made by the artist during the making of an object, or evidence of past restoration. We regularly interview living artists to document their process and develop guidelines for preserving and treating their work.
Heritage Council Internship
The Hugh Lane Gallery’s conservation department in partnership with the National Gallery of Ireland hosts the Heritage Council Internship, offering a graduate conservator the opportunity to spend a year developing their skills in the field of paintings conservation in a gallery setting. The previous interns have had the chance to work on artworks by artists such as Rita Duffy, Kathy Prendergast, Niki de Saint Phalle, Günther Uecker and Edward and Nancy Kienholz.
Conservation in Action
To see more conservation videos, please visit our
YouTube channel.
