Indianapolis Museum of Art studies preservation of glowing pigments

Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields is undertaking research to preserve artworks that utilize vibrant, glowing colors for future generations. Conservators are specifically examining the phosphorescent and fluorescent pigments used in the 1980s creations of designer Stephen Sprouse, whose colors have begun to dull over time.

The museum's textile collection houses several of Sprouse's works. The research focuses on the chemical properties of the pigments to identify ways to prevent color degradation. The aim is to ensure Sprouse's designs, characterized by graffiti prints and bold hues, are maintained in their original vibrancy.

Researchers presented advances in this conservation study at a meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in Chicago this week. They outlined methods aimed at understanding light's effect on the pigments and developing preservation techniques.

Phosphorescent materials store light energy and release it slowly as light, while fluorescent materials, such as DayGlo paints, convert UV light into visible light for brighter, more intense colors. Sprouse's work incorporated these phenomena to achieve his distinctive aesthetic.