Environmental Preservation Equipment for Enhanced Collections Care at the Dennos Museum Center

FAIN: PG-271359-20

Northwestern Michigan College (Traverse City, MI 49686-3061)
Craig Ray Hadley (Project Director: December 2019 to May 2023)

The purchase of supplies to aid the Dennos Museum Center in environmental monitoring of its storage and display spaces. This was recommended in a 2010 preservation assessment. The museum has one of the country’s largest collections of contemporary Inuit art, numbering 1,600 works, in addition to works by artists of regional note, and contemporary Chinese and Japanese ceramics and glass. The museum welcomes over 62,000 visitors annually, serving as an art museum for the community college as well as local and regional audiences of all ages.

The Dennos Museum Center at Northwestern Michigan College respectfully requests $9,062 to purchase environmental dataloggers, a UV light meter, and a HEPA vacuum cleaner to enhance preservation efforts. These tools will support the professionalization of collections care following a leadership transition in 2019, which has led to a renewed focus on preservation and access. According to a 2010 General Conservation Assessment conducted by conservator Barbara Heller (Detroit Institute of Arts), the Dennos was strongly encouraged to acquire these critical preservation tools. The new equipment will enable the Dennos to properly care for its nearly 3,000 works of art, with core holdings in 20th century Inuit works on paper and hardstone carvings, along with regional modern and contemporary artists. The collection directly supports teaching and programming initiatives at Northwestern Michigan College, along with exhibitions and programs for over 62,000 general visitors each year.

Media Coverage

Dennos Museum Receives $9,000 Grant to Help Preserve, Care for Artwork (Media Coverage)
Author(s): David Lyden, Josh Monroe
Publication: 9&10 News
Date: 8/17/2020
Abstract: Dennos Museum Receives $9,000 Grant to Help Preserve, Care for Artwork
URL: https://www.9and10news.com/2020/08/17/dennos-museum-receives-neh-grant/