Hands-on Remedial Measures for Outdoor Industrial Artifacts

Module Synopsis

This new hybrid workshop combines real-time problem solving with hands-on treatment of outdoor industrial artifacts in a heritage setting. Treatments are integrated with classroom instruction, demonstrations of new materials and techniques, the exploration of useful reference material (trade literature and Internet resources), and collaborative brainstorming sessions to find ways to solve the problems associated with outdoor industrial artifacts.

This highy engaging educational platform actively involves the participants in the thought processes and decision-making that guide conservation treatments.

Learning Outcomes

This workshop benefits the participants and the host museum as follows:

• produces worthwhile tangible results, i.e. treated objects accompanied by high-quality documentation
• creates solid links with local or regional private-sector conservation practitioners
• trains and empowers museum staff in treating objects with local significance
• fosters community involvement, awareness, and long-term maintenance of local heritage objects

Units

The hands-on work focusses on the following:

• reaching inaccessible areas through the application of heat, penetrating oil, and hand and power tools
• disassembling, documenting, and cleaning sub-assemblies
• cleaning and coating interior surfaces with rust converters, corrosion inhibitors, or hot wax
• removing rust with surface-conditioning materials and tools
• weatherproofing vulnerable components against the elements
• sharing experiences and discoveries via the Internet

Target Audience

Staff and volunteers of museums and interpretive sites with industrial objects on display outdoors.

Facilitator(s)

George Prytulak

Language

English

Enrollment Limits

Minimum 10; maximum 16

Duration

2 days

N.B. Because this workshop focusses on outdoor collections, it should be scheduled for a time of year when the weather is suitable for outdoor work. Participants are encouraged to bring appropriate clothing in case of inclement weather.

Special Requirements

Safety shoes and glasses are required by all participants.

In addition, the host institution must provide:

• a presentation room with low noise levels and good lighting that can be darkened enough to permit viewing of projected images
• an LCD projector and screen
• at least one computer with Internet access

N.B. Museums that have already had outdoor industrial artifacts examined by CCI staff and received a fortmal written report will be given preference in hosting this workshop.