24 November. An ICCROM team has been in Argentina since Monday to assess the results of a storage reorganization project that was implemented at the Museo Castagnino+Macro in the city of Rosario, using RE-ORG, the ICCROM-UNESCO step-by-step methodology.

The collection in storage amounts to only 800 objects, yet it represents a significant challenge because of the variety of materials, shapes, and sizes – a typical feature of contemporary art collections.  Other challenges included the small amount of space available and the temporary exhibition schedule that had to be maintained during the reorganization process.

The project in Argentina began one year ago with systematic data collection and a condition survey. Following a phase of planning and preparation, the museum team launched into the implementation. Achievements so far include: a collection inventory control scheme and a categorization system by type, material, and size; the creation of new designated space for study and preparation of objects; and the adaptation of another space for temporary storage. Objects are now being prepared for their move back to the refurbished storage area which includes new furniture and containers.

The project benefited from the support of the local Secretariat of Culture. It was organized by the Argentinean member of the Storage Task Force that helped design and develop RE-ORG, and in coordination with the Instituto de Investigación, Conservación y Restauración de Arte Moderno y Contemporáneo (IICRAMC). The success of this project is thanks to the active involvement of the entire museum team in every step of the process.

A case study report on this project will be included on the RE-ORG online platform in early 2012.

As of early 2012 the Spanish and French translations of RE-ORG will also be available.

updated on: 24 November, 2011