‘Reflection of the Moon’ by Tadek Beutlich (1977) is a complex and fragile piece of woven art. Made from organic materials, including esparto grass, sisal and jute, the work is exceptionally fragile and prone to shedding. The original mount and display system was deemed insufficient and inappropriate for even short-term displays and even damaging to the work itself providing insufficient support. This talk will discuss the challenges of working with such a fragile object and demonstrate how a new mounting system was devised that would not only allow the piece to be displayed upright for sustained periods but also allow for easier access and storage. Considerations such as reduced
handling and mount-making not only for display but for long-term preventive conservation will be also be explored.
Leanne Smith, Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester, UK
IMF 7 Day 1, Early Session 10/26/2020
Presenter's Full Abstract and Bio:
For more information about mountmaking, visit our website: