B.A. Chemistry (1994) Brandeis University
M.S. Chemistry (1994) Brandeis University
Ph.D. Materials Science and Engineering (2003) University of Arizona
Email: abezur@rice.edu
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Aniko Bezur
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Research Statement
Andrew W. Mellon research scientist at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Menil Collection
As a research scientist who works in museums most of my activities comprise object-based research in collaboration with conservators and curators, whose mission includes the preservation and interpretation of the museums' collections for public and scholarly audiences. Object-based research involves materials analysis and testing conducted in situ or on microscopic samples from a work of art or a group of objects. Such research addresses questions in a number of areas that include: authentication; the presence of materials associated with previous restoration; the aging and degradation of artists materials; the sensitivity of an object to environmental conditions (light levels, humidity, pollutants, etc.); and the methods and materials employed by artists. Additionally, I help assess the suitability of materials used in the construction of galleries, storage areas, and exhibit cases in order to eliminate, as much as possible, the negative impact these may have on the collection due to the interaction of their volatile components with works of art. The diversity of museum collections and the wide range of questions that may arise in relation to their preservation and study necessitate that I collaborate with other experts, including scientists, manufacturers of artists' and construction materials, exhibit designers and architects, as well as colleagues responsible for the safe handling and transportation of our collections.
My position at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and The Menil Collection, is funded by a five year grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The Department of Chemistry at Rice University is a key collaborator in this grant by ensuring access to scientific expertise in diverse areas of research, by facilitating access to analytical instruments through the Shared Equipment Authority, and by providing a gateway to the many benefits of a vibrant academic and research community. My conservator colleagues and I offer learning opportunities to Rice students interested in the intersection of art and science through lectures and visits to the museums and their conservation laboratories.
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