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Salted Paper Prints

Process and Purpose

Weissman Preservation Center at Harvard Library and the Foundation for the American Institute for Co   /   Deadline: 12/16/16

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The Weissman Preservation Center at Harvard Library and the Foundation for the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (FAIC) will present a multi-disciplinary, two-day program that focuses on the preservation, characterization, use, and interpretation of the salt print process, now over 175 years old. Scholarly presentations will include the technical history of the salt print process (both positive and negative images), historical applications of the process for copying and disseminating information, and innovative materials analysis.

The salted paper print process, publicly announced by William Henry Fox Talbot in 1839, became the first negative-to-positive photographic technique. The ability to make photographic multiples revolutionized the way information was recorded and disseminated in the mid-19th century. These photographs represent records of the scholarly, social, and artistic endeavors of the time and play an important role in educational research across disciplines.

While many salt prints have survived as beautifully preserved images with rich tonal ranges, they can also be prone to fading and color shifts. New conservation research has assisted our understanding of these fragile items, and renewed interest in the historical and artistic aspects of salt prints has paralleled this preservation research.

Applicants are encouraged to submit abstracts or drafts of 300 words or less, and a brief bio or CV. The symposium will include individual presentations no more than 20 minutes in length and panel discussions on an applicable topic - submissions for both formats are welcome. Preference will be given to recent collaborative research that uses scientific and art historical evidence to shed light on the preservation of salt prints, their technical evolution and identification, and the cultural impact of this seminal photographic process.

Location

Harvard University, Cambridge, MA

Fees

Free

Requirements

Applicants are encouraged to submit abstracts or drafts of 300 words or less, and a brief bio or CV. The symposium will include individual presentations no more than 20 minutes in length and panel discussions on an applicable topic - submissions for both formats are welcome.

Considerations

Preference will be given to recent collaborative research that uses scientific and art historical evidence to shed light on the preservation of salt prints, their technical evolution and identification, and the cultural impact of this seminal photographic process.

Evaluation Criteria

Topics can include but are not limited to:
• Subject-Based Research Relating to Early Photography
• Chemistry, Materials, and Process
• Characterization and Variants within the Process
• Preservation and Conservation Treatment of Salt Prints
• Contemporary Uses/Issues (works by contemporary artists, imaging, exhibition, reading room guidelines, teaching, current areas of academic research)

Contact Information

Sarah Saetren

W: https://www.conservation-us.org/courses/professional-development-courses/current-courses/salted-pape
E: courses@conservation-us.org