The First Crack: A Symposium on Conservation and Value in Contemporary Art

Art today often involves the use of nontraditional materials, everything from used chewing gum to dust to latex. Often, these materials are difficult if not impossible to preserve in their original condition, presenting a challenge to conservation. This symposium explores the codes and ethics of market forces that rule the decisions on conservation in the world of private art collecting. 

Renée Vara speaks about the art market and private collecting, as well as the general process behind damaged artwork and insurance claims in her capacity as an art advisor and appraiser. She discusses the "total loss" insurance payout and questions the logic behind the market's demand for pristine artworks.