Contemporary Indigenous Art Archaeological Collections

Contemporary Indigenous art and archaeological collections represent some of the most culturally significant and technically complex materials in conservation. Whether preserving a major contemporary Aboriginal painting, stabilising excavated artefacts, or caring for culturally significant objects, successful conservation requires an understanding of both the materials and the stories they carry.

Endangered Heritage combines expertise across paintings, textiles, organic materials, objects, specialist mount design and fabrication and preventive conservation to develop practical, long-term preservation strategies for these unique collections.

Conservation extends beyond the physical preservation of an object. We recognise that many Indigenous and archaeological collections embody living cultural knowledge, traditional practices and responsibilities that continue long after an object enters a museum or private collection.

Our work is undertaken with respect for cultural protocols surrounding the handling, transport, storage and interpretation of culturally significant material. Where appropriate, we work with Traditional Owners, Elders and community representatives, and both Andrew and Victoria have undertaken cultural instruction and community-endorsed processes where these were necessary to respectfully care for culturally sensitive collections.

We encourage museums and collectors to consider not only the condition of an object, but also the way it is presented and interpreted. Respectful display may include acknowledging cultural handling protocols, ensuring culturally appropriate mounts and mannequins, recognising restrictions associated with sacred objects, and incorporating community perspectives into interpretation. Conservation should contribute to the ongoing process of decolonising collections by supporting Indigenous voices and restoring cultural context wherever possible.

Endangered Heritage also works with a trusted network of specialists involved in the repatriation of Indigenous cultural material. We can assist institutions, collectors and communities with condition assessment, conservation advice, culturally appropriate packing, transport and logistics to ensure repatriation is undertaken safely, respectfully and in accordance with community expectations.