The lecture “Development of Analog Photography and Conservation of Photographic Heritage” was presented in the auditorium of the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto on October 26, 2024. Organized by the National Center for Art Research, this was the Center’s first lecture in the Kansai region, and was attended by 54 members of the general public.

Photographs, ranging from albums of personal snapshots to archival materials and works of art, are stored in massive quantities by diverse cultural institutions including libraries, archives, museums, and research facilities. However, as photography was invented in modern times, its history is relatively short, and because of the material and structural fragility of photographs, there is enormous interest in optimal preservation methods.

The lecture consisted of two presentations. The first, titled “Evolving Photography: Exploring Its Technique and Expressions,” was delivered by Japanese photography conservator Shiraiwa Yoko. She discussed the development of photographic techniques in Japan. The second presentation, “Conservation and Care of Photographic Heritage,” was given by Gwenola Furic, a French photography conservator. Ms. Furic offered an easily understandable explanation of the basics of photographic techniques and preservation, accompanied by actual case examples of preservation efforts.

※ This lecture is supported by Oketa Collection, and by the grant from the Foundation for Cultural Heritage and Art Research.


Toriumi Hidemi (National Center for Art Research)