Conference on reference library of deteriorated fibers

"The Development of a Web-Accessible Reference Library of
Deteriorated Fibers Using Digital Imaging and Image Analysis"

The National Park Service, Harpers Ferry Center Conservation has
been awarded a 2002 Preservation Technology and Training Grant by
the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training
(NCPTT).  The funds will support a conference entitled "The
Development of a Web-Accessible Reference Library of Deteriorated
Fibers Using Digital Imaging and Image Analysis" which will be held
April 3-6, 2003 at the National Conservation Training Center in
Shepherdstown, WV. Textile conservator Jane Merritt and conservation
scientist Dr. Judy Bischoff will host 20 invited participants from
the fields of conservation, conservation science, curation, data
management, systems integration, and image analysis to discuss the
topic. Attendees working with fibers and fiber databases will
discuss how to develop: (1) standards for sample acquisition and
microscopic digital imaging,  (2) a Web-accessible fiber database,
and (3) a standard vocabulary for defining levels of fiber
deterioration linked directly to artifacts.

At this meeting participants intend to discuss standards for
computers, software, digital cameras, image capture and manipulation
and documentation and begin to explore the potential of image
analysis to research microscopic fiber morphology as it relates to
fiber deterioration. Sophisticated digital imaging analysis can be
used to acquire, synthesize, analyze and interpret detailed
microscopic morphological information. With such technology,
translating microscopic levels of deterioration to that on the
macroscopic level becomes a possibility that has implications for
artifact treatment, handling, storage and exhibition.

In addition to supporting the conference, the PTTGrant will support
a publication of conference proceedings.

Contacts:

    Jane Merritt, Textile Conservator and
    Dr. Judy Bischoff, Conservation Scientist
    Department of Conservation
    National Park Service
    Harpers Ferry Center
    PO Box 50
    Harpers Ferry WV 25425-0050
    304-535-6139
    Fax: 304-535-6055


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 16:48
                 Distributed: Friday, February 14, 2003
                       Message Id: cdl-16-48-008
                                  ***