Contemporary Art Conservation at Smithsonian's Hirshhorn Museum

[aZedlav]

silicon oil rubbed into latex tends to keep it quite flexible and resistant to oxidation

[rozchatt]

Very interesting issue about artists using "fugitive" materials. If an artist deliberately chooses to use a material which will not last over time is there really any reason to preserve it for the ages?

Many artists in fact choose to create work for the moment, acknowledging the transitory nature of life.

On the other hand an artist might want to create something that will last through time and therefore should as much as possible use methods and materials that are durable and long lasting.