Conservation
One of the most important parts of excavating, is the preservation of the artifacts. Thus, Van Tilburg along with Monica Bahamondez, the director of Chile’s National Center of Conservation and Restoration, took care with this step. They used a chemical solution on the surface of the statues and then even filled up the hole again.
Conservation
Working With Locals
Van Tilburg emphasized how important it is to care for these ancient artifacts and the current inhabitants, “Conservation is a really important part of what we’re doing.” She wanted to train the Rapa Nui youth to care for the remaining Moai. In fact, she has already began to put that in place, “The entire staff that I work with on Easter Island are from Rapa Nui. I’m very proud of that.”
Working With Locals