View of the gate and courtyard of Shuxiang Temple, part of the Imperial Summer Mountain Resort at Chengde, founded in the 18th century by China's Qing dynasty. The GCI has been working with cultural heritage authorities in China to develop and implement national guidelines for cultural heritage conservation that reflect Chinese traditions and approaches to conservation. As part of this collaborative project, the guidelines will be applied to the conservation and management of Shuxiang Temple, known as the family temple of the Qing court. Photo: Richard Ross.

The Getty Conservation Institute aims to advance conservation practice worldwide through field projects, which incorporate research, planning, and education. These projects are intended to demonstrate the newest and best practices and to serve as models for the conservation field. Their ultimate objective is to broaden and disseminate knowledge of methods that address critical conservation issues.

Project Selection

Field projects are chosen based on a consideration of the significant needs of the conservation field and of the GCI's own experience and expertise. Selected projects address notable conservation problems and provide opportunities for research and training. A demonstrated willingness by local and national authorities to work collaboratively on a project is also required.

The Institute is often approached by a potential partner or may sometimes identify possible partners in an area of work in which it has an interest. Initial contact is followed by a feasibility study during which all the conceptual and practical parameters of the project are evaluated. Selected projects are then designed in cooperation with project partners and implemented according to a phased work plan.

	The hieroglyphic stairway at the Maya site of Copán in Honduras. The GCI is working with the Instituto Hondureño de Antropología e Historia (IHAH) to develop a conservation plan for the stairway. The project includes extensive documentation, study of the deterioration of the stone, and trials and analysis of possible treatment approaches. Photo: Richard Ross.

Project Elements

Projects undertaken by GCI Field Projects staff vary in emphasis, complexity, and scope. Each project follows recognized international principles of conservation and adheres to the highest standards of practice, which include an understanding of the cultural significance of the object or site and a respect for the multiplicity of values associated with it. In each of its field projects, the GCI works with local partners to ensure that the projects work—and the principles governing it—are sustained over time.

	Removing a previous treatment that had darkened one of the approximately 1,000 intricately carved Maya glyphs on the hieroglyphic stairway. GCI researchers evaluated the behavior of the material used in past treatments and tested other potential treatment materials. Photo: Richard Ross.

In carrying out projects, a standard methodology is followed. This includes thorough documentation and recording; diagnostic research and assessment; the development and testing of conservation treatments and strategies; intervention that is minimal, compatible, and appropriate to local circumstances; training; and, finally, dissemination of information regarding the work undertaken and the results.

	Earthen structural remains at the World Heritage Site of Joya de Cerén in El Salvador buried by a volcanic eruption in the 6th century. The GCI has been working with cultural authorities in El Salvador to create a management plan for the site. Scientific research and condition monitoring have also been conducted to better understand deterioration at the site and to develop plans for conservation treatment. Photo: Richard Ross.

By their nature, field projects are multidisciplinary, bringing together specialists from the arts and the sciences to exchange ideas and to develop creative and sustainable solutions for preserving cultural heritage. GCI and occasionally other Getty staff participate in the project teams, as do consultants and representatives of partner organizations. The teams can include archaeologists, conservators, curators, engineers, architects, art historians, biologists, geologists, chemists, city planners, surveyors, museum administrators, educators, and site managers.

	A meeting on the preparation of a site management plan for Joya de Cerén. A method developed by the GCI to create management plans that can ensure the conservation of sites has been adapted to prepare a specific plan for Joya de Cerén. This method can serve as a model for other sites in the region. Photo: Richard Ross.

The Institute disseminates information resulting from its projects through training, publications, and the Getty Web site.