b. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, 1972
Untitled
2002
Paper-clad wire hangers
Dimensions variable
Gift of Mario Cáder-Frech and Robert Wennett, 2004 (04.33)
Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Cathy Carver
The new and “clean” appearance of the paper-clad brass hangers—as if they had just come from the dry cleaner’s—is an important aspect of Dan Steinhilber’s Untitled. However, the thin, bright white paper that covers the hangers has created conservation challenges due to its tendency to tear, yellow, abrade, and fold. Within a couple of years of the artwork’s acquisition, many hangers had deteriorated to the point where they were no longer deemed suitable for display. After discussions with the artist, conservators decided to replace the damaged hangers. The actual process of replacement was complicated: the company that had provided the original set of hangers was no longer in business, and finding hangers with a similar appearance was difficult, as paper-clad hangers have become increasingly obsolete. A suitable set of hangers was eventually sourced, and custom-fitted acid-free boxes were created (a more appropriate storage method that helps ensure future preservation of the paper elements). Nevertheless, we expect the artwork to present conservation challenges in the future, such as yellowing of the paper, failure of the adhesive, and corrosion of the metal elements.
