Wednesday, June 11, 10:30AM EST

Plastics are everywhere — not just in our daily lives, but increasingly in museum and institutional collections. As more artworks and objects made from plastic enter archives and exhibitions, understanding how these materials are made and how best to preserve them is essential.

Join us for this informative webinar, presented by ICA's objects conservator Claire Curran, where we’ll explore the fascinating world of plastics and learn how to ensure that the plastic artifacts in your care can continue to educate and inspire for generations to come. Claire will review the most common polymers found in collections, such as cellulose nitrate, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and discuss how their unique properties influence their interaction with the environment. 

Participants will learn practical strategies for handling, storing, and exhibiting plastic objects, including how to mitigate damage from light, temperature, and humidity. Whether you’re a conservator, registrar, curator, or simply passionate about preserving history, this session will provide valuable insights and actionable guidance to help safeguard these often-overlooked materials.

As always, ICA's monthly webinars are free to attend, but registration is required: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/FzzJ0NblSeikCdC1BdBTHQ