Conference ‘Journey into the Ageing & Alterations of Paintings'(JAAP)

The Netherlands Institute for Conservation+Art+Science+ (NICAS) will hold a two-day conference ‘Journey into the Ageing & Alterations of Paintings’ (JAAP) at the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam on 3 and 4 April 2025.

In recent decades, scientific research has provided new insights into the fundamental aspects of the composition and ageing processes in paints prompting a re-evaluation of our perception of paintings and the concepts of conservation.

Scope
This conference will explore how molecular research contributes to deeper insights into the creation and craftsmanship of paintings and to decision-making and treatments in both active and preventive conservation of paintings. It highlights the interdisciplinary nature of conservation science, showcasing the latest advances in technology and molecular material sciences. The conference will bring together different expertise, insights and knowledge. It will serve as a platform to expand our knowledge on paints, to develop new strategies for conservation treatments, preventive conservation and art historical interpretation.

Programme
The programme comprises a two-day conference with lectures and poster sessions with pitches. The social program includes a conference dinner for participants on 3 April for which a separate ticket needs to be purchased. The venue for the conference is the Auditorium of the Rijksmuseum. Please see the preliminary programme for further information.

Registration
Ticket prices are:

• Early bird (until 1 February, max. 100 tickets): €225
• Regular: €325
• Student (max. 20): €100
• Participants dinner: €30

Tickets can be booked through the rijksmuseum website by following this ticket link. 

Dedication to Jaap Boon
The conference is organised in honour of Prof Dr Jaap Boon who passed away on 4 April 2024. Jaap Boon was at the forefront of molecular research on artworks and played a significant role in the development of the conservation science field.

Conference Topics

• Molecular Insights: The Impact of Molecular Changes on the Perception and Interpretation of Paintings;
• Beyond the Lens: Cutting-Edge Microscopic Imaging Techniques and Advanced Sample Preparation;
• Unravelling the Spectrum: Innovations and Challenges in Mass Spectrometry of Paint Materials;
• Analogous Twins: The Use of Reconstructions in the Study of Paint Alterations;
• Shifting Perspectives: The Ageing of Paintings and how it has Informed Painting Conservation Practice and Decision-making.

Header: Detail of Jean-Paul Riopelle, Composition, 1956, Henie Onstad Art Centre, Norway. HIROX Photo: Jaap Boon, The Netherlands.

Left: Jean-Paul Riopelle, Composition, 1956, 116 × 89 cm, Henie Onstad Art Centre, Norway. Photos: Børre Høstland, the National Museum, Norway.

JAAP is organised by the Netherlands Institute for Conservation+Art+Science+ (NICAS) (www.nicas-research.nl). For questions about this conference, please email us at jaap@nicas-research.nl.

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