Art Conservator: who they are, what they do and how to become one

Who they are and what they do

An Art Conservator is a highly specialised professional responsible for the preservation and restoration of works of art and cultural heritage.

The work of a Conservator requires in-depth knowledge of the materials and artistic techniques used over the centuries. They must be able to identify signs of deterioration and select the most appropriate restoration methods, while respecting the artwork’s historical and artistic integrity. Conservators work on a wide range of objects including paintings, sculptures, textiles, ceramics, and historical artefacts – each requiring a specific approach.

Role and responsibility

An Art Conservator is tasked with examining artworks to assess their condition and identify the causes of deterioration. This process involves the use of advanced diagnostic techniques, such as chemical and physical analysis of materials, to understand the composition of the piece and determine the most suitable methods of intervention. 

Once the diagnostic phase is complete, the Conservator plans and carries out the restoration work, which may include surface cleaning, material stabilisation, reintegration of missing parts, and protective measures to prevent future damage. Throughout the process, it is essential to balance restoration and conservation, always respecting the authenticity of the original work. 

Conservators often work in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with art historians, chemists, physicists, and other specialists to ensure a scientific and integrated approach to restoration. They also document every phase of the restoration process, creating a detailed archive for future reference and research. 

Career and salary

A career as an Art Conservator can be highly rewarding, offering the opportunity to work on artworks of immense historical and cultural value. Employment opportunities are available in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, private conservation labs, and companies specialising in heritage restoration. 

 The salary of a Conservator varies depending on experience, specialisation, and geographical location. In general, highly experienced and specialised professionals can expect competitive pay, particularly when working on high-profile projects or for prestigious institutions. 

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Skylls and training

Key skills required for an Art Conservator include: 

  • Theoretical and practical skills: Becoming an expert Art Conservator requires both a strong theoretical foundation and highly developed manual skills. 

  • Knowledge of materials and artistic techniques: It is essential to have a deep understanding of the original materials used in artworks (wood, canvas, pigments, plaster, metals, etc.) and the techniques by which they were created, to intervene in a knowledgeable and respectful manner. 

  • Use of advanced diagnostic tools: The Conservator must know how to use equipment such as X-ray fluorescence, IR reflectography, radiography, and microscopy to analyse works and detect damage not visible to the naked eye. 

  • Specialist training: Entering the profession requires a structured academic path designed to ensure interdisciplinary, technical, and scientific expertise. 

  • Hands-on field experience: Laboratories, workshops, and internships in museums, archives, restoration sites, and cultural institutions allow students to apply their knowledge and work on real cases. 

How to become an Art Conservator

To pursue a career as an Art Conservator, it is essential to follow a specialised course of study and gain hands-on experience through internships or collaborations with restoration labs. This enables the development of a deep understanding of restoration techniques and the challenges that arise in day-to-day practice. 

 If you are passionate about preserving artistic and cultural heritage and want to turn that passion into a career, explore IED’s courses in Art and Restoration and start your journey to becoming an Art Conservator.