MA Conservation of Easel Paintings

Program Overview

The MA in Conservation of Easel Paintings is a 3-year program that combines art history, fine arts, and natural sciences to prepare students for a professional career in easel painting conservation. The program emphasizes both practical and theoretical aspects, with students gaining hands-on experience in studio-based activities and developing critical and communication skills through lectures, seminars, and research projects. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in private practice and museums, and are known for their detailed understanding of easel painting conservation and strong transferable skills.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The MA in the Conservation of Easel Paintings is a 3-year full-time program designed to prepare students for a professional career in the field.
It combines art history, fine arts, and natural sciences, creating an interdisciplinary approach to conservation.
• Objectives: The program aims to equip graduates with the practical skills and knowledge required for the conservation of easel paintings.
This includes the ability to design, carry out, and evaluate conservation treatments independently.
• Program Description: The program features a strong focus on both practical and theoretical aspects of conservation.
Students gain practical experience through studio-based activities, including conservation treatments and technical study of paintings. They also develop critical and communication skills through lectures, seminars, and research projects.

Outline:

• Program Content: The program covers a wide range of topics, including the theory and practice of conservation, technology and history of easel paintings, art history, technical study, applied science, preventive conservation, and collections care.
• Structure: The program is divided into three years, with each year building upon the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous year.
The first year focuses on foundational knowledge and scientific methods. The second year emphasizes practical work in the studio, with students becoming increasingly independent in carrying out conservation tasks. The third year consists mainly of independent research and advanced conservation treatments.
• Modules: The program includes various modules, each focusing on specific aspects of conservation.
Some examples of modules mentioned in the text are:
• Theory, Ethics and Practice of Conservation
• Technology and History of Easel Paintings
• Art History and Technical Study
• Applied Science
• Preventive Conservation and Collections Care
• Advanced Principles and Theory of Conservation
• Independent Research Project

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including essays, written exams, coursework presentations, and a final viva voce examination.
• Assessment Criteria: Students are assessed on their ability to demonstrate skills in written, verbal, and practical work related to conservation.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes various teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, practical studio sessions, workshops, and professional visits to conservation studios and science departments.
• Faculty: The program is taught by both academic staff and professionals in the field, offering a diverse range of expertise and experience.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes a small class size, allowing for personalized attention and feedback from tutors.
It also encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among students.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in the international art world, including positions in private practice and museums such as the National Gallery, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Getty, the National Trust, and the Royal Collection.
• Opportunities: The program equips graduates with highly transferable skills, making them competitive for various employment opportunities or further academic study.
• Outcomes: Graduates are known for their detailed knowledge and understanding of easel painting conservation, as well as their strong communication, problem-solving, and research skills.

Other:

• Admission Requirements: The program requires applicants to have a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art, History of Art, or Natural Sciences with a good 2.1 or equivalent.
• Pre-Course Science: Accepted students are required to complete an online course in science fundamentals before the program starts.
• Resources: The program benefits from access to extensive scientific laboratories, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse research collections.