Isan Imaginary Creature (2018) by Thaworn Kwamsawat The conservation of five contemporary mixed-media sculptures from an ensemble of Art Centre Silpakorn University

Abstract

Isan Imaginary Creatures (2018) By Thaworn Kwamsawat

The conservation of five contemporary mixed-media sculptures from an ensemble of Art Centre Silpakorn University

This master’s thesis provides an overview of the conservation procedure performed on mixed-media sculptures with acrylic painting. The contemporary art ensemble, called “Isan Imaginary Creatures,” is stored within the Art Centre Silpakorn University, and is under the ownership of Silpakorn University. The ensemble consists of 45 sculptures of varying sizes and shapes. In the context of this master’s thesis, five objects are subjected to exemplary conservation-restoration procedures.

The author presents the investigations and measures done on objects: Naga, Singha, Puyer-Yayer, Human, and Dog sculptures. The art historical background and the technological and condition survey findings are discussed. Furthermore, an aim and concept of conservation are developed that ensures the preservation of the artworks through active conservation, restoration, and preventive conservation measures. Conservation includes dry surface cleaning, glueing, filling, and retouching. The complete assemblage is documented in a photographic catalogue located in the appendix section.

-