Conservation

The safety of works of art is enhanced by a suitable environment. SAM's galleries are carefully managed to provide a responsible and environmentally sustainable museum environment for the collection.

Light Protection
Though Seattle only gets an average of 71 sunny days per year, daylight and artificial lighting can cause severe, irreversible damage to sensitive materials. We restrict the amount of light that falls on these works of art and also rotate them regularly to reduce long 
light exposure.

Air Quality Protection
Pollutants and soiling from dust, handling, and the atmosphere can damage art, making regular attention to art on display a necessity when the museum is closed to the public. We monitor the air quality, control all fabrication and construction materials used in the museum, and work with exhibition designers to provide protective casework and displays.

Each year, many works of art require conservation treatment because they are physically unstable, in need of cleaning, or otherwise unsuitable for display. SAM conservators study each work of art and devise treatment approaches in consultation with curators, specialists, and external experts.

The art you see in the galleries at SAM is held in place by brackets crafted by our expert mount-making department. These custom-made mounts enhance presentation and keep art safe while on display or during an earthquake. Look closely at the 1,000 pieces of porcelain in the Wyckoff Porcelain Room ​to see an impressive and discreet demonstration of the mount-makers’ skills.