Preserving glow-in-the-dark art and fashion for future generations

Conservators are currently working to preserve glow-in-the-dark art and fashion pieces for future display. These efforts focus on stabilizing materials that utilize fluorescent and phosphorescent pigments, which are prone to degradation over time. The project aims to ensure that iconic works, such as those created by designer Stephen Sprouse, remain intact for historical study and public appreciation.

Stephen Sprouse, a prominent designer who rose to prominence in the mid-1980s, is a key figure in this preservation effort. Known for his influence on the punk aesthetic and his collaboration with figures like Debbie Harry, Sprouse’s work frequently incorporated graffiti prints and vibrant Day-Glo colors. These specific aesthetic choices, while culturally significant, present unique technical challenges for long-term material conservation.