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Conservation strategy incorporating storage, display, condition assessment & cataloguing

Conservation Strategies Burrinja recently undertook a major project to implement a conservation strategy and cataloguing of the Neil McLeod Collection. This was made possible through the financial assistance of Arts Victoria - Cultural Infrastructure Program and the Shire of Yarra Ranges.
Consultants Engaged Burrinja contracted a conservation services consultant to conduct a full review of present storage and management practices. The report made numerous recommendations on ways to improve the storage, conservation and cataloguing of this important public collection of indigenous art works.

Ingiet figures are laid out for cataloguing, condition reporting and photographing	Oceanic works are laid out for cataloguing, condition reporting and photographing
The Project Begins A large scale project was begun under the guidance of conservator Carol Campbell to create a state of the art conservation system for the entire collection. A team of volunteers faced the challenge of clearing and refurbishing the storage area, cataloguing the entire collection, preparing condition reports on all works, and devising secure storage systems for each item. Cataloguing, conservation and storage The first task was to empty everything out of the existing storage area, discourage insect activity and establish more consistent climactic conditions. Stripped back to concrete, the floor was painted and custom built painting storage racks and shelving units installed to house the many paintings, carvings and masks. Cataloguing the works proved to be a major undertaking. Each item was numbered, digitally photographed and given a written description. The process seemed never-ending as the sheer extent of the collection was realised, but the consistent and conscientious endeavours of the volunteers meant the job was finally done.

Installing new custom built sliding racks for storage of paintings.	New racking system for artworks in place.
Condition Reports Examining each piece in detail in order to prepare condition reports gave all volunteers an exceptional opportunity to come close to cultures seemingly so remote from Upwey. Everyone found a favourite among the many Iniet carvings - small limestone sculptures created by members of a warlike cult who wielded great influence in the region of the Gazelle Peninsula, PNG. More challenging than the Iniet sculptures were the large and fragile worowa weavings, worn around the neck of tribal chiefs during ceremonies, and the extraordinary Kavat masks used by the Baining, or mountain men, during their fire dances.

View of completed storage area with Ingiet figures on custom made padded shelving and painting racking system.	New shelving for Oceanic works in situ.
Completion This successful completion of this project ensures the long term preservation, greater accessibility and improved management of the entire Collection. This in turn will contribute to Burrinja's ability to market the Collection to Australian and International visitors and to make it available as a dynamic education resource across all levels from primary to tertiary and including private research. The Entire Collection is Digitally Recorded Digital imaging of the entire works will become both a valuable record of the Collection itself and a resource asset in its own right. Electronic access to the Collection enables partnerships with specialist departments studying oceanic and indigenous art, history and ethnography throughout Australia and overseas.
Meagan begins to hang paintings from the Collection on the new racking.
	View of new storage system 'loaded' with art works.

Best Practise Management strategies adopted Most importantly, best practice in management, storage and display of the Collection will enable the Collection to grow in size, diversity and stature, furthering its reputation as a world class indigenous Collection. Arts Victoria "We are pleased that Arts Victoria has recognised both the importance of this wonderful indigenous art collection, and the uniqueness of Burrinja Gallery itself. It marks a big step forward for the future growth of the Collection and the entire Cultural Center. This project will help preserve a valuable public and cultural asset for future generations to enjoy." Ross Farnell, Exec Officer Thanks To All Involved Burrinja extends their thanks to the dedicated efforts of project manager, Carol Campbell and the volunteers Michelle Lim, Megan, Kate Wells, Kath Stuart, Shirley Day and Caitilin Punshon.