Request for Proposal: Conservation Surface Cleaning of Oil Painting

  • Proposal Deadline: Friday February 3, 2017

Objective: Mackinac State Historic Parks (MSHP) issues this Request for Proposal (RFP) to obtain the services of a conservator for the surface cleaning of an oil painting.

Background: Mackinac State Historic Parks, administered by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, includes six parks located in the Mackinac Straits region of Northern Michigan: Mackinac Island State Park; Fort Mackinac; the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum; Colonial Michilimackinac; Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse; and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park.  The collection of historical objects includes over one million items used to fulfill the institutions educational mission.  In the past, conservation has been done by a staff conservator which the park does not currently employ.

The painting is oil on canvas and is in a wood frame. It can be removed from the frame and needs to be cleaned. There is no damage to the painting. The painting measures 14.25 inches long by 9.25 inches high. It will be placed on exhibition in the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum.

Contract Administrator: Brian Jaeschke, registrar, will oversee the contract and act as liaison.

Scope of Work: Conservation services will include:

  • Preparation of a contract setting forth terms and fees.
  • Removal of items from MSHP premises.
  • Conservation of the object which is on canvas with oil based paints.  The object needs to be assessed, photographed prior to treatment, cleaned and stabilized.
  • Conservation of the objects needs to be completed by Friday, April 21, 2017.

Application Process: Applicants should mail (not fax) a copy of their proposal.  Proposals need not be lengthy or elaborate, but should include:

  • Cover Letter indicating the name of the applicant, cost proposal and a brief summary demonstrating that the vendor understands the scope of work.
  • References from previous contracts or educational institutions should be included.

Narrative Proposal: of the project, minimally including:

  • Itemized listing of fees.
  • Conservation laboratory location, including type of security and environment conditions.
  • A timetable describing the work plan, from removal of the objects from MSHP premises to return of the conserved objects.

Submission of Proposals: Submission of a proposal shall be deemed evidence that the applicant has carefully examined the terms, conditions and requirements of the project. A proposal is to be made only on the basis of this RFP.  Deviation from the specific terms, qualifications and requirements set forth in this RFP are not permissible. The proposal must be enclosed in sealed envelopes clearly marked “Conservation Project.”

Deadline for receipt of proposals is: Friday February 3, 2017.  Proposals received after this deadline will not be accepted.

Proposals should be sent to:
Brian Jaeschke
Conservation Project
Mackinac State Historic Parks
P.O. Box 873
Mackinaw City, Michigan 49701

If you have any questions you may call or email Brian Jaeschke at +1 (231) 436-4100, or jaeschkeb@michigan.gov. Images of the painting are available upon request.

Evaluation of Proposals: Proposals will be evaluated on the qualifications and experience of the company, ability to complete the project within the established parameters and cost of services.  The decision of the evaluation team as to the firm selected will be final.