Which strategies are used against insect pests: a survey in 120 institutions of public heritage

Abstract

A quantitative survey was conducted to identify the characteristics of infestations in contemporary art institutions. This survey helped us understanding the mechanism of infestation in French heritage institutions according to the type of institution. Our results show a correlation between the nature of the infestation, its understanding and the themes of the collection. This factual study provides a better assessment of institutions‘ risk management and their probable infestation depending on the type institution. Given these data, we are able to observe the typical features of contemporary art collections and their infestation by highlighting the fact that the insect is not only a pest, but is a constituent element of the artwork.

Keywords

• theme of collection, infestation risk management, typical behaviours, contemporary art, artist’s intentions.