Conservator working on object

What is Art Conservation?

The primary role and objective of the Conservation Division is to conserve the collection of the Museum for future generations.

Conservation includes preservation and restoration and always attempts the least intrusive treatment, utilizing materials that can be removed if necessary. Preservation ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy the art entrusted to a museum.

The bulk of conservation work done at the Nelson-Atkins involves active treatments. Staying current with new digital technology, including digital imaging, is a high priority for the Museum's conservation department.

The conservation department is also responsible for advising on desirable environmental conditions for objects of art, including lighting, temperature, relative humidity and disaster mitigation.