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  • 1.  Displaying a paper object so both sides can be seen

    Posted 12-04-2015 10:08 AM
    What is a good way to display a document so both sides can be seen at the same time?
    Glass, plexiglass
    Are there standard sized options available off the shelf?
    How is air, moisture and dirt infiltration dealt with?

    Kurt Sigmund
     
    AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo, Baltimore, May 16-19, 2024, click to learn more


  • 2.  RE: Displaying a paper object so both sides can be seen

    Posted 12-05-2015 09:24 AM
    Dear Kurt,
    The best answer I can give to your question is to work with a paper conservator on this.  As a textile conservator, I've sometimes received similar requests.  The way to do it is usually a bit complicated.
    If you don't have a paper conservator with whom you work, you can find conservators on the American Institute for Conservation's website, using the "Find a Conservator" tool.  The link is:  http://www.conservation-us.org/membership/find-a-conservator

    Good luck!
    Deborah 

    Deborah Trupin
    Trupin Conservation Services



    AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo, Baltimore, May 16-19, 2024, click to learn more


  • 3.  RE: Displaying a paper object so both sides can be seen

    Posted 12-06-2015 11:57 AM

    Hi

    This is a design question.

    Suggest you describe the overall objectives, any approaches which you are aware of and commission an architect.

    Another option would be to offer a prize for design options.

    ------------------------------
    Chris Watson
    Architect
    Wellington
    New Zealand

    AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo, Baltimore, May 16-19, 2024, click to learn more


  • 4.  RE: Displaying a paper object so both sides can be seen

    Posted 12-07-2015 09:15 AM

    Hi Kurt:

     

    If you want both sides displayed, the easiest option may be to scan the document at high resolution and make a quality print of the side that won't be facing the viewer.  Then you could still do a standard, easy to create mount.

     

    Geoff Woodcox

    Assistant Curator of Collections

    State Historical Society of North Dakota

    612 E Boulevard Avenue

    Bismarck, ND 58505

    (701) 328-3608

     

     

     

     




    AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo, Baltimore, May 16-19, 2024, click to learn more


  • 5.  RE: Displaying a paper object so both sides can be seen

    Posted 12-07-2015 09:26 AM

    Many places are starting to mount such objects at a slight angle, with mirrors positioned below to allow for viewing of the verso.

    ------------------------------
    Devra Wexler
    Exhibition Program Specialist
    National Portrait Gallery - Smithsonian Institution
    Washington DC

    AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo, Baltimore, May 16-19, 2024, click to learn more


  • 6.  RE: Displaying a paper object so both sides can be seen

    Posted 12-07-2015 12:38 PM

    Are you planning on displaying this for a lengthy amount of time or for a specific event?

    I have used both glass and plexi - but tend to like plexi better - and hung it.

    What is the size?

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    Katey Brown
    Director, North America
    Dearborn MI

    AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo, Baltimore, May 16-19, 2024, click to learn more


  • 7.  RE: Displaying a paper object so both sides can be seen

    Posted 12-07-2015 01:29 PM

    Kurt, I would certainly go along with Deborah Trupin's suggestion in the matter. There are a number of things to avoid in mounting an artwork (or document) on paper so that you can see both sides: first, you should not put too much stress on the mounting points, or you risk tearing the paper; second, avoid the idea of pressing the object between sheets of acrylic or glass, or the image or design materials may adhere to the glazing; third, if you make this sort of installation decision without the help of a conservator, you may discover various other problems you might have avoided.

    I have always worked with collections, managing and exhibiting, and also developing conservation plans, working with conservators as to how best to protect the art and artifacts. It may not be the only way, but worked well for the museums where I worked.

    Best of luck with your installation,

    Bruce

    ------------------------------
    Bruce MacLeish
    Curator Emeritus
    Newport Restoration Foundation
    Newport RI

    AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo, Baltimore, May 16-19, 2024, click to learn more


  • 8.  RE: Displaying a paper object so both sides can be seen

    Posted 12-08-2015 08:04 AM

    It is possible to make a two-sided frame with a channel that just fits the contents. The paper is sandwiched between two mats and attached by pendant hinges to one, then glass or plexi is added as the outer layer. The frame can rest in a stand on a pedestal. The lower rail of the frame is joined with screws to make it easily removable. The Colorado company Picture Woods makes this style of frame in custom woods and dimensions.

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    Susan Barnett
    Independent Curator/ Project Manager

    AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo, Baltimore, May 16-19, 2024, click to learn more