Over the past few months, CSPM collections staff have been preparing artifacts for the upcoming exhibit, Freedom to Thrive: The American Experiment in Colorado Springs. Objects and archival materials identified for the exhibit by Curator of History Leah Davis Witherow and Exhibit Designer Kelly Murphy were pulled by Archivist Hillary Mannion, Registrar Caitlin Sharpe, and Museum Technician Brayan Montes De Oca. Pulling a vast array of materials for exhibit is no small feat as they must first be located within the museum’s many storage spaces and then safely transported to the Collections Workspace.
Once pulled, the condition of the selected objects and archival materials are documented with condition reports and photographs. Condition reports are important because they help the museum monitor collection items while they are on display, particularly as some materials, like photos and textiles, are extremely sensitive to light. Objects needing cleaning are dusted with Hake brushes and a Nilfisk Vacuum. This work is done with the goal that the objects will be ready to be installed in the gallery. As the opening gets closer, the collections team will be on hand to assist with exhibit preparation and installation, including dressing several mannequins and cleaning plexiglass vitrines and panels.
In addition to physically preparing collection items for exhibit, Archivist Hillary Mannion and Registrar Caitlin Sharpe compile label information for materials on display. These labels identify and date each item as well as include accession numbers and donor information. These identification labels are then reviewed and utilized by the curator.
Together, the collections team supports the exhibition process by ensuring that objects and archival materials are accessible, documented, and preserved – reinforcing the notion that all exhibits are truly team projects.
Caitlin Sharpe, CSPM Registrar
719.385.5654 | Caitlin.Sharpe@coloradosprings.gov