Costume Collection General Preservation Assessment

FAIN: PG-252434-17

Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches, TX 75965-3940)
Jamie Cupit (Project Director: April 2016 to May 2019)

A preservation assessment of nearly 800 pieces of clothing and accessories ranging from the 1880s to the 1990s.  The collection includes both readymade and designer clothing from local design houses such as Mize Modes and large and well-known designers and retailers such as Christian Dior, Neiman Marcus, Saks, and Bergdorf Goodman, as well as military uniforms and a large collection of hats and shoes.  Items in the collection are used to teach the history of fashion and design through exhibitions and courses on topics such as costumes and visual merchandising in the 20th century.

The proposed project relates to the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Human Sciences Costume Collection, a collection of apparel and accessory pieces dating from the late 1800's.  The proposed project would involve engaging a conservator with expertise in preservation and exhibition of textiles and costume artifacts to visit and conduct a general preservation assessment of the collection. Used for teaching and community outreach, the collection provides an important link for studies in human culture.  The overall goal of the project is to improve ability to responsibly preserve and care for the costume collection and provide a foundation for its future use, care and storage. Specific goals of the conservator's visit are to assess condition and preservation needs of the costume collection, its management and storage. The grant will support the on-site general preservation assessment, preparation of a report and travel expenses of a conservator.