Sometimes, students tell me it's hard to narrow their interests to one field. I've met students who enjoyed making and learning about art, and they equally enjoy science (or computer science). Sometimes, it's a matter of choosing mind vs. heart or what's sound. It's perfectly reasonable to do that; however, this is for those whose interests converge on creative output and preservation.

Art conservation combines studies and skills in fine/visual art, history, and chemistry to help preserve artistic and cultural objects. But more so than that, students who enjoy anthropology, archaeology, and even pharmacology could envision themselves in this career. Its interdisciplinary nature is an answer to the question of having far-leaning curiosities. Here, I will cover the roles of professional art conservators and the pathways that can lead to becoming a conservator.

What is Art Conservation?

Art conservation preserves or helps map our cultural heritage; it contributes to a greater understanding of objects for future study. Since it is the research-based/technical, and hands-on process of preserving, restoring, and protecting artworks, the role of a conservator is quite nuanced. On a day-to-day basis, work can occur independently and through collaborative projects, such as restoring the color to a painting through laser technology or reconstructing a landmark house for a museum. Conservation ties together skills in problem-solving, hand dexterity, visual analysis, and color matching. Conservators practice examining the conditions that affect an artwork, whether due to environmental weathering or age. These skills require an understanding of the processes employed by the original artist(s).

Conservators have the opportunity to specialize in different types of art categories: print/paper, books (manuscripts, historical texts), time-based media (like videos and performances), photography, painting, sculpture, ceramics, architecture, and more. For art that doesn't fit neatly into a category, there is the option to work with a broader niche. For example, contemporary art potentially points to a specialty in found objects, assemblage, or socially engaged art, allowing conservators to engage with art that challenges traditional boundaries. Ask what art or movements speak to you, and go from there. What inspires you?

Pathways to Becoming an Art Conservator

As with the fine arts, hands-on training, whether through an apprenticeship or academic study, is needed to establish a practice. However, it's now become the industry standard to pursue a master's degree—according to the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), the majority of practicing conservators hold an advanced degree. Graduate programs, such as the Conservation Center of the Institute of Fine Arts (IFA) at NYU, take 3-4 years of additional study + internship after a bachelor's degree, offering technical, "on the bench" training. Without that, the barrier to entry dramatically dips, demanding double to triple the experience to make up for the fact. Furthermore, admissions requirements are rigorous: students need to have taken undergraduate courses in studio/fine art, art history, and chemistry (with lab), including up to organic chemistry II. In fact, students take post-baccalaureate classes even after graduating from their undergraduate institution to fulfill these daunting requirements. A portfolio is required, but it's flexible! I have seen portfolios that showcased jewelry design, textiles, fashion, and glassblowing. These all work in showing that a prospective conservator can work skillfully with their hands as long as there is breadth and depth to the work.

The time period of fulfilling these requirements is known as a "pre-program." Because undergraduate programs in historic preservation or art conservation are few and far between, it's not unusual for students to discover a career in conservation only after attaining a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as art history, studio art, archaeology, or chemistry. This can build favorably on your case, as it will be reflected in the quality of the portfolio and personal statement. What may present itself as a challenge is gaining exposure—students can work as interns, volunteers, or technicians at conservation labs within museums or historical societies.

Where Do Art Conservators Work?

If you have ever visited a museum, library archive, or even a digital lab, you have witnessed the products of conservation at work. Whether within an institution or a private practice, conservators adapt to considerable environments. After graduate study, conservators can attain fellowships or work for galleries. They may assist with field digs at archaeological sites or open private practices. After establishing experience, they might seek out freelance opportunities. Art conservators may engage with digital preservation and archives, too. With that being said, prospective conservators should remain flexible about location, keeping in mind realistic expectations.

How Can I Get Started Now?

As a high-school or undergraduate student, you can begin exploring conservation with relevant courses and independent research projects to showcase your initiative and give your art activities admissions value. Additionally, you can form a club with peers. If your goal is to work with a cross-cultural region, it may be beneficial to learn the language while considering study abroad programs.

Real-Life Conservation Projects

For more insight and inspiration, check out these fantastic conservation projects below! These initiatives focus on various preservation techniques.

• The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci: Conservators used laser cleaning to remove decades of grime while carefully repainting damaged areas and re-adhering damaged paint flakes.
• Illuminated manuscripts at the National Gallery of Art: Conservators recreated artists' palettes using traditional pigments and binding materials.
• Ancient Egyptian art at the Brooklyn Museum: Conservators preserve surface dirt as material on an ancient sphinx.
• The reconstructed living room at LACMA: Conservators sterilized 1,500 objects in a freezer truck to prepare for the move.

Conclusion

While the path to becoming an art conservator is daunting, it's well worth the challenge. By preserving artistic work, conservators play a vital role in investigating objects' meanings and histories. Visit a local museum, speak to a mentor, seek workshops, and continue reading more about preservation. Remember to take it one step at a time, and reach out if you have any questions about this exciting field!

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