How We’re Using Light to Recolor Birds and Feathers

Jessie meets the scientists working with LED lights to preserve cultural heritage

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A faded taxidermy cardinal on the right and an arrow pointing to a deep red taxidermy cardinal on the left. Jessie from Becoming Artsy in corner looking over and the text Recoloring Dead Birds at top

By Caitlin Shamberg

Aug 3, 2023

Why is this bird changing colors?

It’s all in the lighting. Getty scientists are working with a spectrum of LED lights to bring the color back to faded feathers. For now, they are experimenting on birds. But in the future, this technique might be applied to objects like tribal regalia.

Follow Jessie inside the studio to learn more!

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