Virtual Member Coffee Chat: Ask a Conservator Day

What can conservation reveal about the history, craft, and care behind treasured objects? On Ask a Conservator Day, Members can join a special virtual chat exploring the Brooklyn Museum’s collection of Hopi tithu (kachina dolls). In this conversation moderated by curators Nancy Rosoff and Dare Turner, hear from those who care for these remarkable works—now on view in Hopi Kachina Dolls: Blessings for a Balanced World. Together, conservators Lisa Bruno, Maribel Cosme-Vitagliani, Michael Galardi, Celeste Mahoney, Mérida Mehaffey, Isabel Schneider, and Kate Wight Tyler will pull back the curtain on the fascinating process of conserving carved and painted cottonwood dolls. They’ll share highlights from their recent work and explore key steps, from understanding materials and construction to navigating the unique challenges of caring for objects with deep cultural and spiritual significance. Discover how conservation can uncover new details about these works while honoring the knowledge, traditions, and perspectives of the communities connected to them—and helping preserve them for future generations. Free; registration is required. Registration details will be emailed to Members. Not a Member? Join today! This program will include live captions. For accessibility accommodations, including ASL interpretation, email access@brooklynmuseum.org.