Study Finds Toxic Air in Museums: From Hirst's Formaldehyde to Digital Screens

A study by scientists at the Politecnico di Milano, published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Chemistry, has found dangerously high toxicity levels in the air of museums and galleries. The research highlights multiple sources of pollution, including formaldehyde from Damien Hirst's preserved works at Tate Modern in London, radiation from video installations, toxic paints, chemically altered synthetic materials, and flammable substances. The study suggests that sealants on Hirst's formaldehyde pieces may leak carcinogenic fumes. Despite health warnings, the article notes that art enthusiasts have previously ignored risks, such as the lead dust from Ai Weiwei's sunflower seed installation at Tate Modern's Turbine Hall. The piece speculates that museum tickets might one day carry health warnings like cigarette packs, possibly featuring Hirst's diamond-encrusted skull.