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Conservator

Tasks and duties

Conservators may do some or all of the following:

• research the history of artefacts and art works
• analyse items to determine what they are made of, their condition and authenticity
• preserve and repair items using a variety of chemical treatments
• consult with curators, owners or iwi about how to treat items
• keep records of completed treatments
• be involved in disaster recovery of items
• advise other staff or collectors on how to store, display and transport  artworks and artefacts
• give training workshops on conservation techniques to community agencies
• keep up-to-date with new developments in conservation.

Skills and knowledge

Conservators need to:

• know about current analytical techniques and treatment methods
• understand conservation principles and ethics
• know about materials used for conservation, such as adhesives
• have a good knowledge of chemistry
• know how to use different types of equipment
• have an understanding of art
• have good research and analytical skills
• be able to solve problems
• have good writing and communication skills
• be able to work to deadlines.

Presentation skills are useful for those conservators involved in training. Conservators also need to have an in-depth knowledge of their specialist subject area, such as paper, wood or multimedia.

Personal qualities

As a conservator you need to be patient, adaptable and organised. Much of your work involves handling irreplaceable collection items, so you need to be careful, methodical, have good judgment and an eye for detail. You also need to have an awareness and understanding of a range of cultures.

Career progression

Conservators can move into teaching roles, such as lecturing at a university, or into other specialised areas of conservation, such as paper or taonga Maori conservation.