BACC is the only publicly-accessible resource for the technical examination of artworks in the western region. In order to ensure we provide the best service to the region, we are working to upgrade our outdated equipment. We have successfully fundraised for and purchased a new infrared camera, and we are now working to raise the final amount necessary to purchase an updated digital X-ray system!
What is an X-Ray and what is it used for?
Just how X-rays are necessary in the examination of broken and sprained bones or revealing cavities in your teeth, X-radiography is essential to understanding the structure, manufacture, and history of artworks and artifacts. X-Ray technology has been used to reveal hidden paintings, overpainted elements, support structures and condition concerns. It can also be used to examine textiles and objects as BACC expands its service into these areas.
Why does BACC need a new X-Ray system?
BACC’s current X-Ray is an analog system that has been with us for over 40 years - and requires film to be processed in a dark room!! That’s right, most of us can’t recall the last time we purchased a roll of film to capture life’s moments - but our current system requires us to secure film for its use. The almost obsolete film can run upwards of $800 a box and is in VERY limited supply. This means that even at its optimal use, BACC’s current X-radiography system is inaccessible to most collections and individuals due to the high material cost and supply scarcity. While it was once a feature of our imaging equipment in the BACC labs, our Analog X-Ray can no longer meet the demands of our organization's growing audience and our region's needs.
The investment in a digital X-Ray system would be more environmentally sustainable, significantly more time efficient, less expensive for BACC and its clients, and therefore exponentially more accessible than the current analog system. New equipment also enables technical analysis of artwork, including X-radiography, to be incorporated into BACC’s tours and ongoing workforce development.
How will a new X-Ray help BACC fulfill its mission?
BACC is the only resource for this type of technical analysis within the western region. While large museums have their own analytical equipment, it is inaccessible to smaller institutions, community collections, and private clients. BACC is the only nonprofit organization in the entire San Diego region that has cultural heritage analysis equipment and thus the unique opportunity and responsibility to make these services and the knowledge they can reveal accessible to a broader and more diverse group of collections and individuals. This is only possible by upgrading our outdated instrument, and we appreciate your support in this effort!