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Conservation of Fine Art MA


Image: Conservation of Fine Art COURSE INFORMATION (2010 ENTRY)

18 months, full-time

School of Arts and Social Science
Burt Hall, Newcastle City Campus

Fine art conservation is a multidisciplinary practice. The programme starts from the assumption that students may be relatively unfamiliar with some aspects of the subject.

The value of bringing together a range of disciplines is recognised and the different perspectives that students from all over the world bring to the programme is of benefit to all. Postgraduate study in the conservation of fine art is delivered out of Burt Hall, at the City Campus, Northumbria University. The well-equipped studios and teaching spaces provide students with a professional working environment. The programme maintains a high level vocational and professional approach by adhering to the benchmark standards of the professional body for cultural heritage conservation in the United Kingdom ICoN – Institute of Conservation.

The first semester of Year 1 is seen as preparatory and includes modules which are necessary balancing elements, e.g. the sciences, art history and modules on artists’ materials and techniques. In semesters two and three approximately two thirds of the time is occupied with conservation theory and practice, the remainder with supporting academic studies, conservation science and art history. The final semester provides students with the opportunity to carry out a research project, an integrated study based on independent research which contributes to the School’s conservation archive.

With the exception of the first semester, approximately two thirds of the students’ time is occupied with conservation theory and practice. By its very nature, conservation is a time-consuming occupation; students must spend as much time as possible gaining experience of conservation techniques, some of which are necessarily lengthy. Work is strictly supervised owing to the nature of the objects being treated. The programmes on deterioration processes and preventive conservation are taught with both specialist groups together.

Professional work placements play an important part in student development and students are encouraged to undertake work placements in the summer recess between Year 1 and 2. Staff are continuously involved in seeking, negotiating and administering the summer placements which have been generously supported by practitioners in the UK and abroad.

N.B. This information applies to 2010 entry - if you are interested in 2011 entry, please contact us

COURSEWORK AND ASSESSMENT

Students are expected to develop a high degree of manual skills, together with a sensitivity to and critical understanding of the techniques being used, they are also required to develop sound critical thought, problem-solving and time management skills. Studio work is supported by conservation theory in the form of lectures, workshops and seminars in which discussion and the exchange of ideas take an important part.

Distinguished experts give lectures as visitors to the programme. A range of assessment methods, linked to module learning outcomes, is used to support, inform and motivate students’ practical and intellectual development.

Examples of assessment methods include assignments, portfolios, group tasks, the analysis and evaluation of case studies, examination and presentations. Assessment is designed to provide students with material which will be used throughout their professional careers and can be used as part of their portfolio of work to be presented at interviews, etc.

CAREERS

Graduates of the MA programme compete successfully for positions of assistant conservation officer in museums and art galleries, whilst many progress to internships in national museums in this country or abroad. Graduates also work for practising conservators in the independent sector.

FUNDING

A number of students each year qualify for the Professional and Vocational Awards given by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

OTHER INFO

Selection is by interview of short-listed candidates in March or April. If selected for interview, applicants must present a portfolio of artwork and take a practical test. Application forms must be submitted by the end of January in the year of proposed entry. In the case of overseas applicants, an application should be accompanied by a transcript of first-degree studies. Unfortunately, it is not possible for candidates to make individual visits to the conservation studios prior to the interview. Candidates wishing to attend the Open Day (which is held in March) should make a written request separate from their application.

COURSE MODULES


Year 1


 

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Northumbria University has taken reasonable care to ensure that the information published is accurate at the time of publication. However, the University gives no warranty or representation as to the quality, accuracy or completeness of the information.



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