Blog @ the Nelson-Atkins

A group of 5 high school students took on the “real world” challenge for a week this summer. Nelson-Atkins art teacher Kreshaun McKinney explained that the overall purpose of the class is to give students the opportunity to work directly with a local Kansas City artist.

Recently, conservators, curators and scientists examined Monet’s beloved Water Lilies to understand how the artist painted, what pigments were used and how his composition evolved.

Given the large size and popularity of the painting, the examination took place in the gallery. A portion of the space was roped off so visitors could watch Mary Schafer, Associate Conservator, at work and learn more about the examination process.

Have you ever wondered what an ancient work of art looked like when it was first created? Or how an artist was able to achieve a certain color or texture? Ever wondered why lighting is different in various galleries? Or how to tell if a work of art is authentic?

If you have asked any of these questions, did you think that science held the answers? From June 21-25, the children’s studio class “Science of Art,” led by Ford Learning Center teacher Penny Selle, tackled those questions and more as students (ages 9-13) set forth on a hands-on exploration of science’s role in art.

The class began with a visit from Nelson-Atkins conservator Paul Benson who talked a bit about what a conservator does and how science factors into his job. Mr. Benson shared with the class a beautiful 300-year-old plate as well as a silver spoon, explaining that part of his job is to answer important questions about the objects. Impressive scientific equipment including x-rays, black lights, and the x-ray fluorescence spectrometer (or the XRF gun) is often used to help determine age, quality, authenticity and composition of art objects—and help identify their value and any needed repairs.