Handling Artworks
¨Objects should be handled using both hands, and whilst wearing clean cotton gloves.
¨Objects should be lifted by the main body, and not by projecting parts.
¨Before handling the ways and exits should be examined and measured in advance to make sure smooth and safe handling.
¨When decorative arts objects are moved within a room they should be carried in a container such as a box or basket, lined with supportive acid-free tissue wads. The wads are made by wrapping two sheets of tissue around one hand, to create an air pocket within the tissue, and then simultaneously scrunching and loosely “rolling” the tissue to tuck in the cut edges of the tissue to create a springy, circular, bun-shaped pad. The wad should not be too tightly compressed or it will not provide effective cushioning in transit.¨Movement of works should be carried out carefully and methodically ensuring the directions of upright positions and all.
¨Clean cotton gloves should be worn at all times.
¨Sufficient staff should be on hand to enable the safe handling and security of the objects.
RESPONSIBILITIES
UAPL’s responsibilities include ensuring that at origin/destination and the Museum/Art Gallery/Organiser are supplied with the following information about each work:
¨Title
¨ID number (if any)
¨Name of the artist
¨Contact details for the artist
¨Medium and support (e.g. oil on canvas)
¨Dimensions (height, width and depth, with measurements taken at the “largest” point for each dimension)
¨Weight (in Kg) for any heavy 3-D works
¨Wording of credit line on labels
¨Valuation, as specified by the lending gallery/museum/owner
¨When required, a detailed condition statement, which describes the condition and completeness of object, including any physical instabilities or blemishes, (eg cracking, loose parts, warping, stains etc). This condition statement is to be confirmed (and updated if necessary) before and after transportation from India to final destination, and again before and after the return journey to India.
¨When required, photographs, (check if there is a preferred format e.g. 5” x 7” which may be required for export licence purposes) (Normally the lender deals with the export permits/licences, however, if agreed with the Museum/Art Gallery /Organiser, UAPL may have to facilitate and assist the lenders for such export licence documentation).
¨Any special packing or handling requirements. Any display recommendations
¨Any environmental recommendations
¨Additional descriptive and historical information, when specifically required.
¨The location from which the work is to be collected/delivered and any restrictions on collection/delivery times.
¨The current location of each work loan (e.g. when in transit, storage etc.).
¨Up to date information in the event of any threat to the security of the works.
¨Up to date information in the event of any threat to the well-being of the objects, including the environment and condition of the objects.