Summary
I have had an interest in the conservation of art and cultural heritage. After visiting the Hirayama Studio in the British Museum, I was able to appreciate and understand the harmony and discipline needed in conservation. I grew an interest in the conservation of East Asian Pictorial art, covering materials predominantly of silk and paper. I had the opportunity to carry out my second-year placement in the Hirayama Studio. This course has grown my passion for conservation and embracing the challenges of every object I work on.
Career Aspirations
After graduating, I will be beginning a masters in the Conservation of Fine Art (Works on Paper) at Northumbria University. Upon graduating my masters, I would like to get a job in conservation, perhaps continuing my relationship with the Hirayama Studio, working towards gaining accreditation.
Personal Reflection
The course has exposed me to copious objects of cultural heritage, widening my understanding of preventive and interventive approaches as well as helping me develop crucial analytical techniques.
Other Projects
I carried out my placement at the Hirayama Studio in the British Museum for 15 weeks. This consolidated my passion for Eastern Asian conservation; particularly in their specialties in paper and silk. My time there offered many opportunities with skilled conservators from various departments and greatly improved my critical thinking and dexterity.
I joined Lincoln Conservation on their commercial project uncovering a scheme of 18th century wall paintings at Stowe House. The work, which involved mechanical removal of overpainting layers with a scalpel, required both intense concentration over lengthy periods of detailed work, and the flexibility to adapt processes in response to the challenges of the historic material.
Objects
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Check out Jen’s Instagram @Jenservation
