Contemporary art transportation: how to adapt techniques to modern materials?

The diversity of materials and forms is immense in contemporary art. Unlike traditional works of art, they can contain plastic, glass, metals of all kinds and even organic or technological parts.

All these factors make transport and storage problems difficult.

How then do these works arrive at their destination safely and intact without being affected during handling or transport? Here we reveal the techniques involved in transporting contemporary works of art and reveal the processes by material and form.

Pre-transport preparation: material analysis and risk assessment

Preparation is crucial when it comes to transporting contemporary art works. A multitude of aspects need to be taken into account, with each material presenting its own risks and requirements. 

Identification and characterization of materials

The first step in preparation is to precisely identify the materials used in the work. This may seem obvious, but depending on the complexity of the creation, various materials may coexist, impacting how they will need to be handled and packaged.

• Plastic: Sensitive to extreme temperatures, it can deform easily.

• Glass: Extremely fragile, requires additional cushioning.

• Metals: Susceptible to corrosion, especially some contemporary sculptures using special alloys.

• Organic materials: Can include everything from wood to biodegradable elements, often require strict environmental control.

Transport risk assessment

Each type of material presents specific risks during transport. Experts usually carry out a comprehensive assessment including analysis of the following points:

• Structural stability of the work.

• Reactivity with common packaging materials.

• Sensitivity to climatic variations.

• Total weight and mass distribution.

Packaging techniques adapted to modern materials

Good packaging not only prevents physical damage but also protects against adverse environmental conditions. Depending on the work's material, different packaging techniques and materials are recommended.

Packaging for transporting plastic works

Plastics are sensitive to heat and impact. So use packing materials that absorb shock and prevent overheating.

• Use expanded polystyrenes or molded foams to absorb shock.

• Wrap each plastic item individually in heat-absorbing bubble wrap.

• Place temperature indicators inside the packaging to monitor conditions during transport.

Protecting glass works

For glass, the main concern is fragility. Any shock, however minor, can crack or break the work.

• Opt for reinforced crates lined with high-density foams.

• Place bubble-wrap interlayers between the crate walls and the work.

• Incorporate polyester or wool fibers around the work to absorb vibrations.

Shielding and corrosion protection for metal works

Metal sculptures, especially those made from mixed or innovative materials, require special care to avoid corrosion and mechanical damage.

• Apply a layer of corrosion inhibitor to all metal surfaces.

• Employ specific protective coatings such as "Vapor Phase Corrosion Inhibitor" (VCI).

• Wrap the work in antistatic and shock-proof blankets.

• Seal it in airtight crates fitted with desiccants to control humidity.

Modern handling and tracking technologies

Technological evolution has brought many tools to manage the transportation of contemporary artworks more safely and efficiently. This encompasses a diverse range of sophisticated equipment and devices.

Use of sensors and monitoring systems

Modern sensors enable continuous monitoring of the condition of works during transport, ensuring a rapid response in the event of a problem.

• Integrated vibration sensors detect excessive shocks.

• Temperature sensors measure thermal variations and trigger alarms if necessary.

• GPS beacons track the location of works in real time to prevent loss or theft.

Robotic and AI-assisted handling

For delicate works, comprising several complex modern materials, the use of robots and artificial intelligence makes handling more precise and secure.

• Handling robots capable of meticulous, calibrated movements.

• AI systems analyzing the best handling method to reduce the risk of damage.

• Automated programs for optimized packaging in terms of applied force and securing.

Environmental impact of transporting artworks

An increasingly considered aspect of transporting contemporary artworks is environmental impact. The choice of transport materials and handling methods must reflect current ecological concerns.

Choosing ecological materials for packaging

Adopting biodegradable or recyclable materials for packaging meets the dual requirement of protecting the work and respecting the environment.

• Use biodegradable foam wedges instead of conventional polystyrene.

• Recycle previously used packaging as long as it is in good serviceable condition.

• Use water-based inks and adhesives to minimize volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Reducing transport-related emissions

Working on solutions to reduce the carbon footprint associated with artwork logistics varies according to several criteria.

• Optimizing routes and consolidating shipments to minimize unnecessary travel.

• Choose certified carbon-neutral carriers.

• Maintain a short supply chain by prioritizing local suppliers.

We have covered various aspects here from initial preparation through to consideration of environmental impact. As each work of art is unique, the use of modern technologies and practices adapted to each material becomes essential to guarantee their integrity throughout the supply chain.