Center for Scientific Studies in the Arts

Center for Scientific Studies in the Arts
Established2004
MissionTo conduct object-based research, share Center expertise and foster effective coordination of research efforts, and educate scientists and engineers and their students in conservation science
FocusConservation Science,
DirectorFrancesca Casadio
Aggelos K. Katsaggelos
Address2145 Sheridan Road, Tech K111
Location,
United States
Websitescienceforart.northwestern.edu/index.html

The Center for Scientific Studies in the Arts (NU-ACCESS) is a collaborative initiative between Northwestern University and the Art Institute of Chicago. The institute is dedicated to the convergence diverse scientific disciplines applied to the realm of art conservation and study. Established in 2004 and supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the center employs scientific and technical methods to investigate and preserve artistic and cultural artifacts, helping to uncover details about their creation, history, and conservation.

Researchers and scientists at the center employ a variety of techniques, including imaging, spectroscopy, and materials analysis, to study artworks in a non-invasive and non-destructive manner. The center also works to develop new technologies and methods for art investigation and to train the next generation of researchers in similar fields.