Current Watch Site

In 2008, a portion of the decorative plaster cornice of the Whitney Studio collapsed, prompting the closure of the space to visitors and drawing renewed attention to its condition. (...)

In 2008, a portion of the decorative plaster cornice of the Whitney Studio collapsed, prompting the closure of the space to visitors and drawing renewed attention to its condition. After helping implement emergency stabilization measures around the area of collapse, WMF sponsored an in-depth study of the studio and its conservation needs undertaken by the Architectural Conservation Laboratory of the University of Pennsylvania. A first phase of study took place from 2009 to 2010, during which field and laboratory testing revealed important information about the condition of the plaster decoration. At the same time, extensive research on the history of the Whitney Studio and its decorative program was conducted. A second phase of study undertaken in 2011 examined in detail the available options for restoring the studio ceiling. To learn more about the research, click here.

The next phase of work began in January 2013. In this project, four students from the Conservation Center of the Institute of Fine Arts of New York University (IFA-NYU), and a student from the historic preservation program at Columbia University will analyze paint samples from the fireplace to determine the original color scheme and prepare a treatment plan for its conservation. A Ph.D.-level graduate student from the IFA-NYU is undertaking an in-depth study to understand this commission in the context of Chanler’s other significant works. The project, being overseen by NYU professor Michele Marincola and materials conservation expert Mary Jablonski, will conclude at the end of 2013.