How to Become a Conservator (Restoration: Art or Science?)

If you’ve ever envisioned preserving precious artifacts or wondered what it takes to become a conservator, you’ve landed at the right spot.

In this guide, we will delve into the EXACT steps you need to follow to kick start your career as a conservator. We’ll discuss:

• The skills you need.
• The education that can propel your career.
• How to secure a job as a conservator.

So, whether you’re new to the field of conservation or someone with a keen interest in history and preservation looking to elevate your skills, keep reading.

We’re about to reveal the roadmap to becoming a conservator.

Let’s get started!

Steps to Become a Conservator

 

Step 1: Gain an Understanding of the Profession

Before you start your journey to become a conservator, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what the profession entails.

Conservators work in museums, historical sites, or laboratories, preserving and restoring artifacts, works of art, documents, and other important items.

Their work involves a great deal of research, meticulous attention to detail, and often, a depth of knowledge in a specific field of art or history.

You can start gaining this understanding by visiting local museums or historical sites, talking to conservators, and reading related literature.

Some conservators specialize in certain areas, such as paintings, textiles, archaeological artifacts, or architectural heritage, so consider where your interests lie.

Remember, this profession requires a passion for history and art, a commitment to preserving cultural heritage, and a willingness to continually learn and adapt in a field that often combines elements of art, science, and history.

Volunteering or interning at a museum or historical site can also provide valuable insights and hands-on experience.

This can help you decide if this profession is the right fit for you, and it could be an important step towards your future career as a conservator.

 

Step 2: Obtain a Relevant Educational Background

In order to become a successful conservator, you should start by pursuing a bachelor’s degree related to the field.

This could be in art history, anthropology, archaeology, history or a similar discipline.

These programs usually offer courses that will provide a strong foundation for your career in conservation, such as studies of different cultures, periods in history, and artistic styles.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, it’s highly recommended to pursue a master’s degree in conservation or a related field.

These programs are often quite specialized and can focus on areas such as art conservation, paper conservation, textile conservation, or architectural conservation.

This degree will provide the necessary scientific and practical training to conduct conservation work on a professional level.

As part of your master’s program, you will typically need to complete an internship or practicum in a museum or similar institution.

This gives you hands-on experience in the field and can be a valuable stepping stone to securing a job in conservation after graduation.

Also, keep in mind that in the field of conservation, continuing education is crucial.

The methods and materials used in conservation can change as new research emerges, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments.

This can be achieved through workshops, conferences, and additional coursework.

 

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience

After completing your education, it’s crucial to gain practical experience in the field of conservation.

This can be done by applying for internships or work placements at museums, art galleries, historic sites, or preservation societies.

These opportunities provide hands-on experience in handling, preserving, and restoring various types of artifacts.

They also give you a chance to work with experienced conservators and learn the nuances of the profession.

In addition to formal internships, you can volunteer at local historical societies, archaeological sites, or natural history museums.

This not only allows you to gain practical experience but also helps you network with professionals in the field.

Furthermore, you can seek apprenticeships or entry-level positions under professional conservators to learn specific techniques and methods used in restoration and preservation.

It’s also beneficial to attend workshops, conferences, and seminars related to conservation to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Remember, the more experience you gain, the better equipped you will be to handle the intricacies and challenges that come with the profession of a conservator.

This practical experience will also be highly valued by future employers and could potentially lead to job opportunities.

 

Step 4: Consider Postgraduate Studies

To further your career as a conservator, you should consider enrolling in postgraduate studies.

This could be a master’s degree or a postgraduate diploma in conservation studies, heritage management or any other related field.

These programs generally cover the theory and practice of conserving cultural heritage, and provide practical training in the care and conservation of a wide range of objects and materials.

While studying, you will gain knowledge about different materials, the scientific principles of decay, and the ethical issues surrounding conservation.

You will also get hands-on experience through work placements in museums, libraries, archives, or historic sites, which is invaluable to gaining the practical skills necessary for the job.

Additionally, you could consider pursuing a PhD if you’re interested in a particular area of conservation or if you wish to work in academia or research.

It’s important to note that these higher education qualifications are not mandatory but are highly valued and can help you stand out in a competitive job market.

Make sure to choose a program that is accredited by a professional body, such as the American Institute for Conservation or the Institute of Conservation in the UK, as this will ensure the quality of the education you receive and provide recognition from the professional community.

Remember that lifelong learning is a key aspect of being a conservator, as new conservation techniques and materials are continually being developed.

Therefore, consider ongoing professional development and continuous learning as part of your career journey.

 

Step 5: Develop a Technical Skill Set

As a Conservator, possessing a certain set of technical skills is crucial for successfully performing the job.

These skills include but are not limited to proficiency in the use of specialized conservation tools and equipment, knowledge of conservation science and materials, understanding of historical research methods, and documentation skills.

First and foremost, conservators must be adept at using a variety of tools and equipment, from basic hand tools to advanced scientific instruments such as spectrometers, microscopes, and X-ray machines.

These tools are used for examination, restoration, and preservation of artifacts.

Secondly, understanding the science behind materials and their deterioration processes is crucial for conservators.

This involves studying the chemistry and biology of different types of materials, such as textiles, ceramics, metals, and wood, and learning how to prevent or mitigate their degradation over time.

Additionally, conservators need to be familiar with historical research methods.

This might involve researching the provenance of an artifact, identifying the materials and techniques used in its creation, and understanding its historical significance.

Finally, conservators require documentation skills.

This means being able to accurately record and report the condition of artifacts, the treatments carried out, and any research findings.

This documentation serves as a permanent record of the artifact and is essential for future conservation efforts.

You can develop these skills through relevant coursework, internships, and on-the-job training.

Continual professional development is also important in this field as new techniques and technologies are constantly being developed.

 

Step 6: Build a Professional Network

Building a professional network is an integral part of any career, and it’s no different for conservators.

Connecting with others in your field can provide opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and job opportunities.

Start attending industry conferences, seminars, and workshops.

These events not only provide a wealth of information but also offer a platform to meet and interact with experienced professionals, peers, and potential employers.

Join professional organizations related to conservation, such as the American Institute for Conservation, and local historical societies.

Participating in these groups can give you access to resources, newsletters, and forums where professionals share insights, advancements, and job openings in the field.

Volunteering or interning at museums, historic sites, or conservation labs can also help you establish contacts.

These experiences not only enrich your skills but also demonstrate your dedication and passion for the field, which can impress potential employers.

Don’t forget the power of online networking.

LinkedIn, for example, is a great platform to connect with professionals worldwide.

You can participate in groups and discussions related to your field, share your work, and get noticed.

Remember, networking is a two-way street.

As you seek guidance and opportunities, be ready to offer your skills and knowledge to others in your network.

By building strong, reciprocal relationships, you can establish a robust professional network that can support you throughout your career as a conservator.

 

Step 7: Stay Abreast of Ethical Practices

As a conservator, ethical considerations are at the heart of your work.

You’re entrusted with the responsibility of preserving and restoring valuable and often irreplaceable artifacts, works of art, or historical items.

As such, you need to be aware of and adhere to the highest ethical standards.

One of these includes the principle of minimal intervention.

This means that you should always aim to do the minimum amount of work necessary to preserve the item, while making sure that any work done is reversible, in case future conservators need to correct or improve upon it.

Being part of professional bodies, such as the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) or International Council of Museums (ICOM), can help you to stay abreast of these ethical considerations.

These organizations often provide guidelines, resources, and continuing education opportunities to their members.

You should also stay up-to-date with the latest preservation and conservation techniques and technologies.

This can be done by reading industry journals, attending seminars, webinars, and workshops, or even enrolling in further study or short courses.

Continually updating your knowledge and skills will enable you to carry out your work in the most ethical and effective way possible, maximizing the lifespan and integrity of the items in your care.

 

Step 8: Obtain Professional Certification

After obtaining your degree and gaining some hands-on experience, it’s time to consider professional certification.

While not mandatory, obtaining a certificate from a recognized professional organization, like the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), can significantly boost your career prospects and credibility in the field of conservation.

The AIC offers a Certified Professional Conservator (CPC) credential, which acknowledges the conservator’s knowledge, skills, and professional experience.

To qualify for this certification, you need to possess a graduate degree in conservation or a related field, have a minimum of seven years of post-graduate professional experience, and pass an exam that assesses your knowledge and abilities in conservation.

In addition to the CPC credential, the AIC also offers a Professional Associate (PA) status for less experienced conservators.

This requires a minimum of two years of post-graduate professional experience and a demonstration of ethical and professional conduct in the field.

Obtaining professional certification can help you stand out from other conservators and validate your expertise and dedication to the field.

It’s also a significant step towards demonstrating your commitment to continuous learning and adherence to the highest standards in conservation work.

 

Step 9: Create a Portfolio

In a field like art conservation, having a portfolio of your work is critical.

Your portfolio will serve as a visual resume, showcasing your skills, techniques, and areas of expertise.

It should include before and after photographs of the objects you have worked on, with detailed descriptions of the processes and materials used in their conservation.

Wherever possible, include a variety of artifacts and artworks in your portfolio to demonstrate the range of your skills.

If you have had the opportunity to work on a particularly challenging project or a high-profile piece, be sure to highlight these.

In addition to physical copies, consider creating a digital portfolio as well.

This allows potential employers or clients to view your work online, which can be especially beneficial in today’s digital age.

You could also include links to any publications or articles you’ve written, as well as any presentations or lectures you’ve given.

Remember, your portfolio is not static.

Continually update it as you complete new projects, acquire new skills, or achieve new accomplishments.

A well-constructed, comprehensive, and up-to-date portfolio will greatly enhance your professional image and increase your chances of landing the conservator job you desire.

 

Step 10: Apply for Conservator Positions

After you’ve gained the required education, certifications, and experience, the next step is to apply for conservator positions.

There are various institutions that offer conservator roles including museums, art galleries, libraries, archives, and historical organizations.

Start by researching institutions that align with your area of specialization.

For example, if you specialized in paper conservation during your studies, you might want to apply for roles at libraries or archives.

On the other hand, if you specialized in art conservation, museums and art galleries could be ideal places to start your job search.

Prepare your resume and portfolio showcasing your academic qualifications, certifications, internships, work experiences, and successful conservation projects.

Make sure to highlight your skills and expertise in conservation techniques, preservation management, and knowledge of materials and their degradation processes.

Tailor your cover letter to each role you apply for.

It should highlight your passion for conservation, your expertise in the area, and how you can contribute to the institution’s conservation efforts.

Finally, keep up-to-date with job listings on professional conservation websites, job boards, and LinkedIn. Networking with professionals in the field can also open up job opportunities.

Be prepared for the recruitment process which may include several rounds of interviews and possibly a practical assessment of your conservation skills.

 

Step 11: Engage in Continuing Education

As a Conservator, continual learning is crucial for staying updated with the latest techniques and technologies in the field.

After gaining professional status, you should consider engaging in continuing education to deepen your knowledge and skills.

This could be through attending workshops, seminars, and conferences related to conservation science or art history.

These activities not only allow you to learn new methodologies and tools, but also provide opportunities for networking with other professionals in the field.

You may also consider undertaking additional courses or certifications that are relevant to your specialization, such as courses on digital preservation for those specializing in preserving digital artworks.

Further, subscribing to professional journals and being part of conservator associations can keep you informed about the latest research and advancements in the field.

Participation in webinars and online forums can also be beneficial for remote learning.

Remember that the field of conservation is ever-evolving and it’s important to stay abreast of new conservation materials, techniques, and ethical considerations.

Being proactive in your continued education will not only make you a better Conservator but will also increase your chances of career advancement.

 

Step 12: Consider Private Practice

After gaining sufficient experience in the field, you might consider starting your own private conservation practice.

This step requires a high degree of expertise, as well as the ability to manage a business.

Starting a private practice allows you to take on projects that you are personally interested in and passionate about.

You could specialize in a specific area of conservation or offer a broad range of conservation services.

However, keep in mind that this step also involves business-related tasks such as marketing, client management, budgeting, and more.

Before starting a private practice, it is crucial to have a good understanding of the conservation market and potential clients.

It is also beneficial to network with other conservation professionals and join professional associations to stay updated on the latest conservation techniques, research and ethical considerations.

Remember, the transition to private practice can be challenging.

It may take time to build a client base and become financially stable.

Therefore, before taking this step, ensure that you have enough savings or another source of income to sustain yourself during the early stages of your private practice.

 

Conservator Roles and Responsibilities

Conservators have the important role of preserving, treating, and maintaining artifacts and works of art.

They use a careful, detail-oriented approach and deep knowledge of materials science and history to ensure items of cultural or historical significance are preserved for future generations.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Preservation and Conservation

• Assess the condition of cultural heritage items, including artwork, artifacts, and historic materials.
• Perform conservation treatments to stabilize and preserve items.
• Use scientific analysis to identify materials and degradation processes.

 

Research

• Conduct research to determine the most appropriate conservation methods.
• Research the historical and cultural context of items to guide conservation efforts.

 

Documentation

• Document the condition of items before, during, and after conservation.
• Create detailed reports outlining the conservation process.
• Maintain records and databases of conservation activities.

 

Exhibition and Storage

• Advise on the safe exhibition and storage of items.
• Monitor environmental conditions to prevent damage to items.
• Develop and implement disaster plans to protect collections.

 

Communication and Collaboration

• Work closely with other professionals such as curators, historians, and archaeologists.
• Communicate with stakeholders about conservation activities and findings.

 

Education and Outreach

• Educate the public about conservation and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
• Conduct workshops and presentations to share knowledge and skills.

 

Professional Development

• Stay up-to-date with advancements in conservation science and techniques.
• Participate in professional organizations and attend conferences and seminars.

 

Project Management

• Plan and manage conservation projects, including budgeting and scheduling.
• Ensure compliance with ethical and legal standards in conservation.

 

Health and Safety

• Follow health and safety guidelines to handle hazardous materials and processes.
• Implement preventive measures to protect oneself and others from potential hazards.

 

What Does a Conservator Do?

Conservators are specialized professionals who are responsible for the preservation, treatment, and maintenance of cultural property.

This includes historical artifacts, works of art, and significant documents.

They work primarily in museums, archives, art galleries, libraries, and historic sites.

Some conservators also work as independent contractors for private collectors or smaller institutions that do not have in-house conservators.

Conservators examine objects to ascertain their condition and the materials they are made from, then decide what conservation methods should be used to preserve them.

They use a variety of scientific techniques and tools to analyze and determine the most suitable treatment.

The conservation process may include cleaning the object, stabilizing it for display or storage, and carrying out repairs.

They often document their work extensively, recording the condition of the object before, during, and after the conservation process.

Conservators also often collaborate with other professionals such as art historians, archaeologists, and scientists to understand the context and significance of the objects they are preserving.

They also play a crucial role in disaster recovery, helping to save and restore items damaged by floods, fires, or other catastrophic events.

In addition to their hands-on work with objects, conservators may also be involved in research, teaching, and outreach activities.

They advocate for the importance of preserving cultural heritage and often share their expertise with students, colleagues, and the public.

 

Essential Conservator Skills

• Attention to Detail: As a conservator, the ability to focus on minute details is critical. This includes careful handling, examination, and restoration of delicate objects and materials.
• Art History Knowledge: A thorough understanding of art history and various artistic methods is a must. This knowledge helps in identifying and appreciating artworks and cultural heritage items and preserving them accurately.
• Chemical Knowledge: Understanding the chemistry of materials is crucial for preserving and restoring artifacts. This includes knowing the effects of various substances on different materials and how to mitigate potential damage.
• Manual Dexterity: Many restoration and conservation processes require delicate, precise handwork. Good hand-eye coordination and steady hands are invaluable in this profession.
• Conservation Ethics: It is essential to adhere to professional guidelines and ethical standards in conservation. This includes respecting the integrity of the original work and not causing further harm during the conservation process.
• Documentation: Good record-keeping skills are necessary for documenting the condition of objects, treatment procedures, and conservation outcomes. This information can be vital for future conservation work and research.
• Research Skills: Often, conservators need to conduct research to determine the best conservation strategies. This may involve investigating historical context, materials used, and previous conservation efforts.
• Problem-solving: Conservators often encounter unique and complex challenges in their work. The ability to analyze problems and develop creative and effective solutions is fundamental.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills are crucial for conservators. They need to interact with various stakeholders, including museum staff, art historians, and other conservators.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with various tools, techniques, and technologies used in conservation is vital. This may include traditional hand tools, scientific analytical equipment, and digital imaging technologies.
• Patience: Conservation work can be time-consuming and meticulous. The ability to maintain focus and patience throughout long, detailed processes is essential.
• Teamwork: Conservators often work as part of a team, including other conservators, curators, and scientists. The ability to collaborate and work effectively within a team environment is necessary.
• Continuing Education: The field of conservation is constantly evolving, with new techniques, materials, and research. A commitment to lifelong learning and staying updated on the latest developments is key.

 

Conservator Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Conservator

The first step in your career path is typically a Junior Conservator role.

This is a learning stage where you absorb knowledge and gain hands-on experience.

Your responsibilities might include assisting senior conservators with minor restoration works, conducting basic research, and documenting processes.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

1. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest conservation techniques and materials used in the field.
2. Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek advice from experienced conservators.
3. Attention to Detail: Develop a keen eye for detail, which is crucial in the conservation field.

 

The Ascent: Conservator

With experience and knowledge, you’ll progress to the role of a Conservator.

You’ll be involved in more complex restoration projects, decision-making processes, and possibly training junior team members.

Here’s how to thrive at this level:

1. Expertise: Develop a specialization in a specific area of conservation, such as paintings, textiles, or archaeological artifacts.
2. Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other professionals like archaeologists, historians, and scientists.
3. Documentation: Accurately record all aspects of conservation work for future reference and research.

 

Reaching New Heights: Senior Conservator

As a Senior Conservator, you’ll be recognized for your expertise and leadership within the team.

You may be responsible for overseeing conservation projects, guiding junior team members, and engaging with external stakeholders.

To excel at this stage:

1. Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help junior conservators to hone their skills.
2. Strategic Planning: Contribute to the planning and execution of conservation strategies.
3. Leadership: Inspire your team through your dedication, work ethic, and passion for the field.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Head Conservator and Beyond

As your career advances, you could become a Head Conservator, Conservation Manager, or even Director of Conservation.

These roles involve greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

1. Administrative Leadership: Develop strong administrative skills to manage budgets, staff, and resources.
2. Advocacy: Advocate for the importance of conservation and raise awareness about the field.
3. Innovation: Keep up with innovative methods and technologies in the field of conservation.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Chief Conservator or VP of Conservation

At the highest levels of the conservation field, you may achieve roles such as Chief Conservator or VP of Conservation.

Here, you’ll shape the overall conservation strategy of the organization, make crucial decisions, and lead larger teams.

 

Conservator Salary

Entry-Level Conservator

• Median Salary: $37,000 – $45,000 per year
• Entry-level conservators typically have 0-2 years of experience and usually hold a master’s degree in conservation or a related field. They perform basic conservation tasks under supervision.

 

Mid-Level Conservator

• Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
• Mid-level conservators have 2-5 years of experience and take on more complex restoration projects. They often specialize in a specific type of material or object, such as paintings, textiles, or archaeological artifacts.

 

Senior Conservator

• Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
• Senior conservators possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading conservation projects and initiatives, planning and executing complex conservation treatments, and mentoring junior conservators.

 

Chief Conservator / Conservation Manager

• Median Salary: $70,000 – $100,000+ per year
• These roles require significant experience and often involve overseeing all conservation activities, developing and implementing conservation policies and procedures, and managing conservation staff and budgets.

 

Director of Conservation

• Median Salary: $90,000 – $140,000+ per year
• This high-level position requires extensive experience and deep knowledge of conservation principles and practices. Directors of Conservation are responsible for setting the strategic direction of a museum’s or organization’s conservation efforts.

 

Conservator Work Environment

Conservators often work in museums, art galleries, libraries, universities, and historical archives.

Some may work for government organizations, helping to preserve and restore national treasures or important historical sites.

They often work in a studio or laboratory environment depending on the nature of the objects they are preserving or restoring.

For instance, conservators working with paintings or sculptures may have a studio, while those working with archaeological artifacts or historical documents may work in a laboratory.

Depending on the nature of their work and the artifacts they are dealing with, conservators may also have to travel to various locations, such as archaeological sites, historical buildings, or even other countries.

This is often necessary when the objects or sites they are working on cannot be moved due to their fragility or historical importance.

Work hours for conservators can vary.

Those employed by institutions may have a regular work schedule, while those who are self-employed or work on a freelance basis may have more irregular hours, depending on the needs of their clients or the projects they are working on.

A career as a conservator often requires a high level of attention to detail, patience, and a deep understanding and appreciation of art and history.

It can be a highly rewarding profession for those with a passion for preserving and restoring cultural heritage.

 

FAQs About Becoming a Conservator

What qualifications do I need to become a conservator?

To become a conservator, you generally need a master’s degree in conservation or a closely related field.

Many conservators also have a bachelor’s degree in art history, fine art, archaeology, or chemistry.

Key skills include attention to detail, patience, precision, understanding of chemistry, and knowledge of historical information.

Practical experience, such as internships or volunteer work in museums, can also be beneficial.

 

How long does it take to become a conservator?

The time it takes to become a conservator can vary depending on your educational path and experience level.

Most master’s degree programs in conservation last two to four years, and they often require a period of practical training or internship, which can last an additional year or two.

Therefore, it typically takes about six to eight years to become a conservator if you start from scratch.

 

Can I be a conservator without a master’s degree?

While it’s possible to work in the conservation field without a master’s degree, most professional conservator positions require it.

If you’re very experienced and skilled, you may be able to work your way up to a conservator role through hands-on experience, but this is less common.

Institutions like museums, historical sites, and archaeological digs usually prefer candidates with formal education in conservation or a related field.

 

Is being a conservator a stressful job?

Being a conservator can be stressful at times due to the delicate and precise nature of the work.

There is often a significant responsibility involved in preserving and restoring valuable and sometimes irreplaceable artifacts.

However, many conservators find the work to be extremely rewarding and take great satisfaction in preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

 

What are the job prospects for conservators in the future?

Job prospects for conservators vary depending on location and specialization.

Opportunities are generally more plentiful in urban areas where there are more museums and cultural institutions.

The rise in public interest in cultural preservation and history may lead to increased opportunities in the field.

However, competition for jobs is likely to remain strong due to the specialized nature of the work and the limited number of positions.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Taking the first steps to become a conservator may seem daunting, but it’s undoubtedly fulfilling.

Equipped with the right skills, education, and passion, you’re well on your way to making a significant contribution to the preservation of our history and culture.

Remember, the journey may be rigorous, but the opportunities are boundless. Your dedication could lead to the preservation of valuable artifacts and priceless works of art for future generations.

So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with professionals in the field. And most importantly, never stop refining your craft.

Because the world is waiting to see the past through your work.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in conservation, look no further than our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide customized advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path.

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