This open access book investigates whether and how theoretical findings and insights in
contemporary art conservation can be translated into the daily work practices of conservators
or vice versa whether and how the problems and dilemmas encountered in conservation practice
can inform broader research questions and projects. For several decades now the conservation
of contemporary art has been a dynamic field of research and reflection. Because of
contemporary art's variable constitution its care and management calls for a fundamental
rethinking of the overall research landscape of museums heritage institutions private-sector
organizations and universities. At first this research was primarily pursued by conservation
professionals working in or with museums and other heritage organizations but increasingly
academic researchers and universities became involved for instance through collaborative
projects. This book is the result of such collaboration. It sets out to bridge the gap between
theory and practice by investigating conservation practices as a form of reflection and
reflection as a form of practice.
