Location: 2nd Level South Gallery
On February 1, 2018, the Mulvane Art Museum concurrently launched an exhibition and fundraising project titled Endangered Art. Curatorial staff selected works from the Museum’s permanent collection identified as “most in need of conservation,” to be incorporated in a rare exhibit (February 2, 2018- July 14, 2018) providing an opportunity for the public to see twenty-seven paintings that do not typically go on view because they are in need of conservation, cleaning, and framing. In this process, the Mulvane engaged a fine art conservator to assess the selected/exhibited paintings. The Museum is currently working to raise the necessary funds to conserve artworks from the permanent collection that require conservation care. The project has funded the conservation of seven artworks to date.
Endangered Art - A Reprise features artworks from the permanent collection, not included in the premiere exhibition, that require conservation. Further, the exhibition demonstrates the dramatic transformation of our recently conserved paintings, incorporating behind the scenes documentation of the conservation process, and presenting new research generated as a result. Existing at the intersection of conservation and curatorial practice, this project serves to fulfill the Mulvane Art Museum’s mission, “to provide members of our community a museum where they can learn to think independently and critically about art,” and aligns with Washburn University’s 2022 Strategic Plan to continue educational programs “firmly rooted in the liberal arts and sciences, emphasizing creative and critical thinking.” Generated research and correlated programming provide insights into the technical study of art, underscoring its interdisciplinary scope—utilizing science and technology.
This comprehensive endeavor is an effort in transparency— designed to acknowledge the poor condition of these paintings and further educate an intellectually and financially engaged public on the historical and aesthetic value of artworks held in the Mulvane’s permanent collection. Endangered Art engages the community on a personal level, and offers an opportunity for visitors and members of Washburn University to feel a sense of ownership and responsibility for the artworks as they receive conservation. This exhibition is made possible by the generosity of local donors.
For additional information please contact Rebecca Manning (785) 670-2224.
