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Art Conservation and “Saving Your Stuff” focus of Daughters of Utah Pioneers Annual Meeting

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Orson Pratt Family

Orson Pratt Family

The featured speaker at the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Annual Director’s Meeting in Ogden, Utah, was widely acclaimed art and painting conservator, Mr. Scott M. Haskins. For the 450 members present at the main session on the 9th of July, 2012, it was a rare and delightful experience.

This enthusiasm is easily explained when one considers the deep positive relationship between Mr. Haskins and the Daughters of Utah Pioneers, a relationship which began in 1980 when he started working on paintings in the International Museum of Pioneers’ collection in Salt Lake City.

These paintings are not only priceless works of art from the earlier periods of American history, they also vividly document the Expansionist period of the United States of America. Many of them were produced in the 1840’s (the Nauvoo Period) and preserved by the pioneers, who were responsible for transporting them across the plains. Others were made by pioneer immigrants, settling into their new homelands.

Pioneers Crossing the Platte River by Dan Weggeland

Pioneers Crossing the Platte River by Dan Weggeland

Naturally, the collections of this museum contain more than just paintings. Items that speak of the life and times of the early American peoples abound everywhere you look and, lining the walls, are photos showing an assorted variety of facial expression from those early days. Indeed, exploring the collections and content of the International Museum of Pioneers in Salt Lake City is like a beautiful journey back in time.

It is no wonder, then, that Mr. Haskins’ speech was NOT some fancy, academic dissertation on the arts. It was, rather, an endearing look at the DUP paintings with stories, photographs and slides that were not only filled with humor, but also carried important lessons for the conference attendees about the preservation of their American culture at home and their DUP museums.

Apart from being an art conservator, Mr. Haskins is also a prolific writer. Using his book, “How to Save Your Stuff from a Disaster”, he shared tips and valuable advice on ways to protect and preserve heirlooms and other family memorabilia in case of emergency situations. His speech was received with great enthusiasm.

Later, at the end of the main session, around 50 of the participants gathered in a workshop to sit privately with Mr. Haskins. They had the extra benefit of seeing more pictures and slides, having their personal questions answered and also being part of a sweepstakes drawing, where more than $2,000 worth of valuable prizes was given away. These prizes included one year’s subscription to Ancestry.com.

Mr. Haskins’ book, together with an anchoring product, Museum Wax, and an instructional CD, was sold at the event. From the profit realized, a donation of $326 was made by Save Your Stuff LLC (Mr. Haskins’ Company) to the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. Also, a website dedicated to showing various art and painting restoration and conservation projects was set up at Pioneer Art Restoration. The website, which is both educational and entertaining, is frequently enriched with new photos, stories and videos. For ease of use and convenience, you do not even have to be on the mailing list to receive updates, just sign up at the side bar and you are good to go. It is hoped that, with this website, the members of the DUP would be well acquainted with home and museum preservation methods and practices, and also that some funds would be raised along the way.

Sold to benefit DUP

Sold to benefit DUP

Mr. Haskins was very pleased with the Daughters of Utah Pioneers’ meeting. His message was well received by both the President of the DUP, other directors, as well as members present. A panel discussion was set up for all preservation experts at the event to find answers to member’s burning and sometimes emotional questions, after which the conference was brought to a close.

If you are interested in having Mr. Scott M. Haskins speak at your event or workshop, or perhaps you would like his videos, stories and tips to feature in your website, blog or newsletter, please call Fine Art Conservation Laboratories at 805 564 3438 to speak with Mr. Haskins’ Assistant, Francesca Ruggeri. Alternatively, you can send an e-mail to francescafacl@yahoo.com.

Click on the following link: FACL Newspaper Article to read a current article about Scott M. Haskins and his company. Do leave a comment if you find the article useful.

Click on the following link: Lab Tour for a brief video tour of Mr. Haskins’ company, Fine Art Conservation Laboratories. Kindly leave a comment after your tour.

Click on the following link: Pioneer Art Restoration to visit the Early Americana Art restoration website.

Click on the following link: Appraisals of fine art, antiques and more if you have any questions regarding art appraisal. Alternatively, you can reach Richard Holgate at 805 895 5121 for personal discussions.

Click on the following link: Preservation Coach for practical video lessons on protecting and preserving treasured items and collectibles. Kindly leave a comment if you find the videos useful.

Pioneer Children by CCA Christensen

Pioneer Children by CCA Christensen

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52 Responses to "Art Conservation and “Saving Your Stuff” focus of Daughters of Utah Pioneers Annual Meeting"
  1. Ryan Ridgway says:

    Wow, what great pieces! When they say a picture is worth a thousand words, they are so correct! Thanks for sharing

  2. James Dixson says:

    Sounds like Mr. Haskins gave quite a thrilling and reminiscent presentation. Would’ve loved to witness the event 🙂

  3. Teresa Flanigan says:

    We have countless heirlooms and valuable family history at our house. I may need to look into your book “How To Save Your Stuff from A Disaster’ 😉 Thanks – Teresa

  4. Faith says:

    Definitely not an event to miss. You will learn so much on how to protect valuable pieces of history. Scott does wonderful work.

  5. While I do not know Mr. Haskins, I always appreciate a non-pretentious approach to art. In my opinion, art is not supposed to be something lofty that is only comprehensible to some elite group of people. I’ve seen this in action in regards to “old school” art as well as some of the grittier forms of art such as what is found on Juxtapose.

  6. Sandra says:

    I am sad that I had to miss the event as I had other prior commitments that had conflicted with it. Scott does wonderful work and gives excellent presentations, and hope to attend next year.

  7. Stephanie says:

    Losing a piece of your history in a fire is one of the harshest things to endure emotionally. Thank you Scott, for helping others recover pieces of history, and thank you for teaching others how to care for them properly. Excellent event.

  8. Tammy says:

    Unfortunately I could not attend but do know Scott gives excellent lectures and presentations. You will learn so much from what he says! Hope to make it next year.

  9. Robin says:

    Scott, you are very direct and honest with your approach. Excellent presentation and hope to be back next year.

  10. Sarah says:

    I am sad that I could not take it to the event. I have heard excellent things about it and wish I was there.

  11. Bea says:

    Mr. Haskins, the presentation was the best I have ever been to. You do great work and am looking forward to the one next year.

  12. Harriet says:

    It was one of the most inspiring and eye opening presentations I have ever attended. You are brilliant, Scott.

  13. Nancy James says:

    This was a presentation where Scott had shed light on what truly could happen to our collectibles in a disaster. Very frightening to know but the good news is, you can take care of them. Great work Scott.

  14. Raquel says:

    Hope to attend next year. Sounds like it was great. It is scary to know what can easily happen to a precious piece of history if it is not cared for.

  15. Yvette says:

    Wish I was there Scott. Hopefully next time. You do wonderful work.

  16. Rae says:

    I would have loved to have been to Scott’s presentation. I am so sorry I missed it. I learned so many valuable things from his book about caring for my collectables properly.

  17. Jane says:

    I have an event that I hope to get into the works soon that is relevant to Scott’s work. In fact I may be interested in having him speak at it. I will be in touch.

  18. May says:

    I wish I was able to attend the conference. Thank you for doing such great job with my painting that was ruined in a fire. Means so much what you did.

  19. Claire says:

    An incredible presentation. I have some work for you Scott and will be in touch soon about it. You are the only one who I trust.

  20. Jackie says:

    Great book Scott. A lot of people take for granted what could happen to their precious pieces of history. It could be wiped out in a second.

  21. Rachel B says:

    Scott your presentations are incredible and I am sorry I missed this one but will definitely be there for the next.

  22. Andrea says:

    One of the most memorable events I have ever attended maybe because I am so interested in the preservation issues you discussed and you are the first time I’ve ever been able to hear a real professional speak. Thanks for the enlightening information Scott. I admire you for your work and your passion.

  23. Ramonda Shop says:

    Great info. Thanks.

  24. isabel marant says:

    Thank you for your article, look forward to more.

  25. Adela Yeoman says:

    The paintings are awesome. You don’t see that type of artist these days. Thanks for posting this.

  26. Sandy Bowman says:

    Early Americana art is so fun and interesting. I love the historical connect it offers me. Thanks.

  27. Jennifer says:

    You shared very helpful piece of information here. I was searching for art restoration and conservation and I stumble upon here by chance and I am very happy to be here. Looking forward to read more from you. Thank you.

  28. Sara Blanco says:

    I always love seeing info on taking care of paintings especially those that has involved in history. Specially vintage paintings this art is really priceless.

  29. Jackson Mason says:

    Nice read! And interesting to know about the DUP.

  30. Dino says:

    Thanks Scott, loved to have been there. I heard great things about the meeting. All the best

  31. Yeah, it would be interesting to visit that museum

  32. I like this post! It’s really cool.

  33. Fantastic pictures. Look forward for more. These are something that are so precious and must be preserved.

  34. my grandmother was an artist and she had a huge collection of her art work. We are preserving them now in her memory as she is no more now. I am looking forward to attend this event next year as I couldn’t make it up this year.

  35. Really cool content. My father has a huge collection of art works. He uses his own unique method to maintain them as they are. I will inform him about this meeting which he can make up to the next time. He would really love this.

  36. Ben King says:

    It’s good to know how to take care of this stuff I got some old paintings from my grandma and I want to keep them in the best condition possible.

  37. Joshua Pitts says:

    Great piece of work. I love the art examples you included as well!

  38. Very good content. I have many paintings passed on form my grandmother who was a great art lover. I want to preserve them for the best. This piece of information is truly great. Thanks for sharing this lovely piece of information.

  39. Janan Smith says:

    Always nice to preserve a piece of history

  40. Eddie Munoz says:

    International Society Daughters of Utah Pioneers is lucky to have you. Thanks for these good tips.

  41. Desert Rose says:

    Actually art is my passion, and I am an artist. I appreciate your work and information that you put out in your presentations. You are doing a good job.

  42. Paul says:

    Great article. Thanks for that information. Just discovered you recently. Keep u the great work.

  43. Qasim Ali says:

    Thanks for sharing this article about daughters of utah pioneers

  44. Jonson says:

    Great post today. An interesting read for any person who would agree with your views. Long may these posts continue.

  45. Mani Dominquez says:

    Yeah, the painting “Orson Pratt Family” is very beautiful.

  46. David Alexander says:

    Thanks. Good article.

  47. I want to deliver stuff to the school i work fors organization i want to put programs on the organization that allow be on there?

  48. Jose miller says:

    Art Conservation is really awesome activity for all because art is very unique thing in this word because through art we can teach every one in very clear way.

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