Conservation of Historic and Artistic Work
What's it about?
Conservators and restorers are experts in understanding the process of deterioration and in giving objects a new lease of life. Anything that is coIlectable may need conserving at some stage and specialists have long worked in the fields of fine art, archaeology, furniture and ceramics. Today, conservation work also covers stained glass, musical instruments, books and archives, textiles, and wall paintings.
What skills do I need?
Conservators and restorers need to have an interest in both arts and science. In order to treat an object they must understand how it was made, how it has changed and how it is likely to react in the future. Materials science and a certain amount of chemistry are thus involved. Artistic skills are frequently required in order to make repairs sympathetic to the look and nature of the piece. The conservator or restorer must also study how objects were used and why they were created so that important data is not lost during treatment. Business and communication skills are important and, as in most walks of life, a sense of humour helps.
How much will I earn?
Although most conservators and restorers describe the work as deeply satisfying, it is usually undertaken as a vocation. In other words, it is a calling which may be very rewarding but is seldom lucrative.
How can I train?
Conservation is taught in a wide range of institutions, from universities to private independent colleges. Courses are available at various levels: first degree and postgraduate degree, diploma or certificate, BTEC National and Higher National Diplomas, and certificates and diplomas awarded by individual colleges. Some specialisms, such as furniture conservation, are widely taught at several levels. Others, such as the conservation of fine metalwork, are only available through advanced courses.
Where will I work?
Many people come to conservation or restoration from other fields or after a career in a completely unrelated business. They usually find that their previous experience is helpful, though they accept that there is a great deal to learn and that, even after qualifying, a period of supervised work or apprenticeship is essential before taking on the responsibility of caring for objects. After formal training you will need several years experience before you can consider yourself a competent conservator.
Conservation and restoration are practised throughout the UK. Local authority museums and private museums and galleries frequently have conservation staff. In addition some areas have an Area Museums Service which provides conservation facilities for smaller museums. University collections or departments may have a conservation post. Other conservators and restorers work in practices or independently.
How can I get started?
One way to start is to visit local museums and study the collections to see which type of objects interest you the most. Ask if the museums have their own conservation department and phone or write to ask if it is possible to arrange a visit. Some museums have volunteer programmes which give some experience of working with objects.
Regrettably, budget and staff cuts mean that fewer museums have the time and staff available to work with volunteers. Some private practices will accept interested volunteers to gain experience, but there are always more candidates than places, even for unpaid positions.
Tell me more!
For more information on courses and careers in conservation, click on the link to the Institute of Conservation (Icon) www.icon.org.uk
Museums Association: www.museumsassociation.org/
