Colin,
The problem isn't just having paint stick to the artifacts, there is also
the worry of off-gassing from the paint, which can damage artifacts. A month
is the recognized "safe time" for letting paint cure, however, with such
fast turnaround in temporary exhibits, this is not always possible.
Possible alternatives include using fabric as a colour base instead of paint
- just make sure that is is washed really well in a gentle fabric cleaner.
Another alternative is to place sheets of mylar between the paint and the
artifact.


>From: Colin Macgregor Stevens <[log in to unmask]>
>Reply-To: Museum discussion list <[log in to unmask]>
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: Re: Question about painting galleries
>Date: Fri, 26 May 2000 15:34:43 -0700
>
>The situation of odour and fumes has been addressed. The following caution
>is for the artifacts.
>
>I learned from experience at one museum I ran that "dry to the touch" does
>not mean that the paint is really dry. If artifacts etc. are to be placed
>on
>painted surfaces, I suggest a long curing time - a month if one wants to be
>paranoid and really safe. I found the hard way that artifacts, especially
>heavier items, would sometimes stick to freshly painted 'dry to the touch'
>surfaces in display cases.
>
>Colin Macgregor Stevens,
>Curator,
>Burnaby Village Museum,
>Burnaby, BC, CANADA
>
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
> > Behalf Of Susan B. Felker
> > Sent: May 26, 2000 11:27
> > To: [log in to unmask]
> > Subject: Re: Question about painting galleries
> >
> >
> > Thanks for all the responses about practices/policies on painting
> > galleries during regular museum hours.
>...
>
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