Analysis of Modern Paints and Conservation at the Clyfford Still Museum

Abstract

A range of condition issues are noted within the Clyfford Still Museum collection of paintings, primarily stemming from rolling the canvases before complete drying of the paint films had occurred. Interpretation of these issues is uniquely challenging due to the abstract compositions and limited understanding of the artist and his intent. Technical analysis is being used to characterize the materials and the changes they have undergone. This research supports and informs both treatment decisions and art historical interpretation of the artworks. Conservation activities must take into consideration the developing curatorial scholarship and analytical findings while determining acceptable aesthetics for aging twentieth century artworks. Identification of metal soaps is presented, their effects, and mechanisms of unique visual phenomena are studied.