Job Summary:
The Art Conservator is responsible for the overall care, preservation, and conservation of the art collection. This includes identifying artworks requiring intervention, performing hands-on treatments, managing restoration projects, and ensuring high standards in art handling and storage. The role requires strong project management skills, technical expertise in conservation, and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and catalog artworks and objects with condition issues requiring conservation.
- Photograph artworks and objects for documentation and reporting.
- Source and liaise with expert conservation technicians, consultants, and suppliers as needed.
- Prepare restoration proposals for clients in collaboration with the Senior Art Department Manager.
- Monitor and ensure proper care and storage of artworks; report discrepancies or issues to the Line Manager.
- Manage restoration projects, including documentation, budgets, invoices, and presentations, in collaboration with the department managers.
- Perform hands-on conservation treatments across various media as required.
- Support other departmental functions and perform additional duties as assigned by the Direct Manager.
Required Skills & Qualifications
- MA in Art History with specialization in Conservation.
- Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in art conservation.
- Formal training and experience in conservation practices, preferably within a museum or similar setting.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Skilled in photographing artworks for documentation.
- Highly organized, efficient, and detail-oriented.
- Ability to manage multiple projects independently.
- Advanced computer skills, including MS Office and Adobe Photoshop.
- Experience with CMS platforms (e.g., Axiell) is essential.
- Strong project management skills.
Knowledge & Expertise
- Proficiency in collection management software (e.g., Axiell).
- Knowledge of art handling, packing, and environmental storage standards.
- Understanding of project management principles and tools.
- Experience in writing detailed condition reports and treatment proposals.
- Practical expertise in conservation techniques.
- Research skills related to materials and conservation history.
- Established network of conservation professionals and suppliers.