Questions_and_Answers_0002.pdf

140P4222Q0063 EISE Photograph Conservation

Questions & Answers

Q1. Can you describe where the items will be stored, with dimensions of height, width and depth? Will items be stored flat?

A1. All of the conserved photos will be stored flat.

Q2. Do you have flat files or shelving?

A2. We have both. Large photos like the panoramas are stored in folders in flat files, while small photos are stored in photo envelopes in boxes on shelving. Color photographs and negatives are stored in photo envelopes in boxes in cold storage (freezer).

Q3. Flat files will usually accommodate items a bit larger than 30" x 40".

A3. Correct, most of the larger items will fit in our standard flat files. We have ordered an oversized flat file that is 80 inches wide. Any of the panoramas that are too big for the standard flat file will be stored in the oversized one.

Q4. Do you have a preference for housing (boxes or folders)?

A4. Folders are preferred for the larger photos. The smaller ones will go in photo envelopes and be combined with others in the same boxes in use now. We have envelopes on hand.

Q5. Is grouping like items together acceptable?

A5. Yes.

Q6. There is a wide range of box styles and prices. Do you use a particular style that works well for you and you would like to continue using? Are you looking for the most cost efficient housing?

A6. As stated above, for the smaller photos to be stored in boxes, we will simply add them to boxes in use now. The contractor does not need to supply boxes for final storage (just for transportation back to the park).

Q7. For the items stuck to glass, in my experience, it is highly unlikely that the glass can be removed without incurring significant image loss. Does a cost for reproductions as opposed to a cost for conservation sound acceptable?

A7. Based on the NPS conservator’s initial input for this requirement, EISE is confident the required tasks can be accomplished as described in the SOW. Potential contractors should include all tasks in their bid considerations. Once work begins, the future contractor would alert the COR to any significant risk of damage before proceeding. Neither of these photos stuck to glass are needed for exhibit, so reproductions would not be necessary.

Q8. Items EISE3156a and EISE3157a: Very little conservation can be done with these, really only securing any actively flaking emulsion. The reproductions will very much resemble the appearance as they are right now. Maybe they can be used as some kind of teaching tool? Given this, are reproductions of the distorted items acceptable?

A8. Based on the NPS conservator’s initial input for this requirement, EISE is confident the required tasks can be accomplished as described in the SOW. Potential contractors should include all tasks in their bid considerations. Once work begins, the future contractor would alert the COR to any significant risk of damage before proceeding. These two photos are listed in our Historic Furnishings Report as something for permanent exhibit (in their original frames).

Q9. After photographs are removed from glass should they be inpainted?

A9. Yes.

Q10. Can you identify the media of the hand-coloring on the opalures?

A10. Likely water color paint.

Q11. Is it acceptable to place the photographs into individual enclosures, but then group them by size into several storage boxes?

A11. Yes.

Q12. Please confirm whether NPS will arrange round trip shipping of the objects?

A12. NPS personnel will deliver and pick up the photographs.

Q13. Can companies from outside USA apply for this?

A13. See the Solicitation and Statement of Work for geographic restrictions.

Q14. Are potential contractors required to attend onsite meetings?

A14. No.

Q15. Can we perform the contract outside of the United States?

A15. No, see A13.

Q16. Can we submit proposals via email?

A16. Yes, see solicitation instructions.