Tate's new RICHeS programme-funded volatiles gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) analysis instrument. © Tate, 2026. Photo: Bronwyn Ormsby.
Conservation Science and Preventive Conservation are two inter-connected teams which explore more holistic aspects of collection care with the aim of optimising preservation and supporting ongoing access.
Conservation scientists study artworks in Tate's collection, exploring art materials as well as conservation materials and methods. This is to help understand how artworks are made, how they change over time, and how we can best preserve them, through scientific investigation. We respond to queries from our colleagues and external partners and carry out collaborative research, with new technologies and sustainability at the core.
Preventive conservation can be defined as all actions which slow or halt the deterioration of artworks. This includes monitoring and investigating factors which can affect artworks such as temperature, relative humidity, light, ultraviolet light, dust, vibration, pollutants and heritage pests. We help ensure all Tate artwork spaces comply with Bizot Green Protocol guideline for sustainable collections and provide advice to reduce risk within the ever-evolving contexts of Tate's collection.
Samples of paint from the mid- and later 20th centuries, in the organics laboratory
Nanorestart gel being prepared for a treatment to remove dirt from Roy Lichtenstein’s Whaam! 1963
Dr Joyce Townsend in the projects laboratory, with painted boards that explore J.M.W. Turner’s painting techniques
The Tate projects laboratory, with many samples of modern paints prepared for a workshop on new methods for cleaning painted surfaces
The microscopy laboratory, with tiny samples from artworks collected over 30 years and more