NEH Chairman's Emergency Grant Request Application: Universidad del Turabo/MCEH Aid in the Aftermath of Hurricane Maria

FAIN: PB-260709-18

Sistema Universitario Ana G. Mendez, Incorporado (Gurabo, PR 00778-3030)
Carmen T. Ruiz Fischler (Project Director: November 2017 to June 2019)

Replacement of tiles in the Huecoid Gallery; temporary storage, relocation, and reinstallation of the ceramic collection; and conservation treatment of photographs and historic wood and wicker furnishings from La Casa del Artista Residente.  The grant would also support the purchase of diesel fuel as the MCEH awaits restoration of power. 

Immediate action would be taken to move the Huecoide collection on exhibition at the Museo y Centro de Estudios Humanísticos (MCEH) to Universidad del Turabo storage facilities and remove the ceramic tiles that need to be replaced.  With the uncertainty of the power infrastructure operations, it is anticipated that at least a two-week supply of diesel fuel will be of utmost necessity to help power a generator for the MCEH 24/7.  Before the work is performed, the collection must be moved and stored temporarily, and then reinstated.  An arts conservationist would be commissioned to restore nine pieces consisting mainly of photographs that were affected by rain; the “Casa del Artista Residente” roof was almost totally blown off during the event, and mold has been affecting the pieces.  A wood conservationist would also restore an antique living room-style ambiance composed by five pieces in wood and wickerwork.