Politics of Care

This chapter traces the life of architectural objects at the Canadian Centre of Architecture (CCA) and the conservation lab, which creates the impression of being the most isolated place at the CCA. It describes the objects on trial, experiments in progress, protocols, tests results, a giant microscope, and the lingering smell of unknown chemicals inside the conservation lab. It also emphasizes how objects in the conservation lab are treated like patients in need of special care as the objects get a full health and security check. The chapter analyses reports of each object's experiences and reactions, which allow the objects to be inspected during an exhibition to ensure that they have not changed. It reviews the work of conservators Karen Potje and David Stevenson in order to follow how the affected objects are treated amidst the fear of time and hazards of climates and environments.