Lecture 20 - Melissa Lewis ACR

Melissa Lewis ACR FRSA, Specialist in Modern and Contemporary Art

Overview

A circular economy model is typically an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and reusing resources, ideally in perpetuity. This talk starts out with a clear definition of the circular economy and some of its implications, especially those pertinent to the art world and museums. The introduction is followed by suggestions how we might develop and rethink collection care, in light of 'circular' insights. The talk will concude by discussing how 'green chemistry' (the use of safer, more ecologically friendly solvents and chemicals) can enhance and improve individual conservation practice, with specific examples from paper conservation.

About the speaker

Melissa Lewis is a modern and contemporary art (paper) conservator. In 2013 Melissa founded Modern British Conservation, a conservation and collection care company. She has worked, until recently, for some years at the Victoria & Albert Museum, with stints at the Natural History Museum.