Dialogues On Materiality
The Dialogues on Materiality series focuses on the Whitney’s research involving artists’ materials and techniques. Participants engage in on-going discussions regarding trends and specific challenges to the preservation of unconventional art. Founded in 2001, the Conservation Department embraces innovative approaches to the treatment and technical study of works of contemporary and modern art in the Whitney’s collection.
Restoring a Twelve-Foot Ice Bag
Carol Mancusi-Ungaro and Eleonora Nagy
May 12, 2009
In 1971, Claes Oldenburg created Ice Bag–Scale C, the third version of a piece that originally appeared at the 1970 World’s Fair in Osaka, Japan. Unfortunately, the motorized system that inflates, deflates, twists, and turns this kinetic sculpture into various position never worked properly and ultimately it was relegated to storage. The Whitney assembled a team of experts to restore this complicated mechanized sculpture to its full capability. The discussion focused on the unique challenges of restoring Claes Oldenburg’s Ice Bag–Scale C followed by a demonstration in the galleries.
Encountering Jackson Pollock
Carol Mancusi-Ungaro
November 12, 2008
A comprehensive review of Pollock’s methods and close examination of one work on the floor.
An Investigative Eye into the Practice of Jackson Pollock and Donald Judd
Carol Mancusi-Ungaro, Narayan Khandekar, and James Martin
February 26, 2008
Mark Rothko’s Mural Commissions
Carol Mancusi-Ungaro
April 6, 2009
Mark Rothko painted murals for three commmissions known as the Segram Murals (1958–59), the Harvard Murals (1962–63), and the Rothko Chapel (1964–67). Expanding his ideas and practice with materials, Rothko produced mesmerizing murals that both engage the eye and challenge principles of conservation. Carol Mancusi-Ungaro discussed her extensive experience with Rothko’s murals and their place in his technical development.
The Lure of the Object: 2008 Biennial
Carol Mancusi-Ungaro and Matthew Skopek
May 21, 2008
The Whitney strives to strike a balance between protecting art objects and encouraging intimate viewing experiences for our audience. Works discussed included pieces in the 2008 Biennial as well as other works in the Museum’s permanent collection acquired from previous Biennials.
