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Four-year evaluation and restoration project of Alberto Giacometti Plasters
Since 2006 the Alberto Giacometti Foundation in Zurich has been enhanced by the addition of approximately 90 sculptures by Alberto Giacometti, most of which are made of plaster. The works were initially inherited by Bruno und Odette Giacometti, who subsequently bequeathed them to the Foundation, thereby doubling the number of sculptures in its possession. It is only now that the collection seriously reflects Giacometti’s entire oeuvre from his earliest works to his last, thus enabling a variety of insights – some unexpected – to be gleaned from the artist’s work.
From a conservational perspective the sculptures, above all those made of plaster, are currently not all in the same condition. Consequently, a number of sculptures require comprehensive conservation work to be undertaken before they can be put on display. Art technology research comprising, among other things, material and object analysis as well as literature and archive research will form the basis for subsequent decision-making on the implementation of responsible and meaningful conservational measures.
A multi-year research and restoration project would need to take into account the outstanding quality of these artworks.
In terms of content and timing the project is structured in two phases, each lasting approximately two years.
This website will be updated regularly.
Thanks to the generous support of the STAVROS NIARCHOS FOUNDATION, the Ars Rhenia Foundation for the trans-regional promotion of art and culture and the Tarbaca Indigo Foundation.
Project Phase 1: Art technological research
Project Phase 2: Conservation / Restoration
Progress report: October 2010 to April 2011
Definition of the main areas of research and systematization of work processes
Beginning of the investigative phase and outlook
Progress report April 2011 – April 2012