How to Become an Art Restorationist
Restoring damaged or weathered art and artifacts is a task that falls under the heading of art conservation. Art restorationists are sometimes referred to as art conservators and are trained in the techniques of restoration, including the preventative care, documentation and examination skills required by most museums. Building an art restoration career takes years and requires the desire to learn about art, the materials used by artists and the chemistry behind the products and techniques that are used to restore the integrity of the art.
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Obtain the right degrees. Art restoration requires a master's degree in art conservation and in some cases a second master's degree in a discipline such as art, archaeology or history. Undergraduate degrees focused on one or a combination of the following may be helpful in gaining entry into a master's program: art history, chemistry, archaeology and studio art.
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Work in the art conservation field before applying for a Master's degree program. There are a small number of colleges and universities that offer a Master's degree program in art conservation and the competition for entry into them can be fierce. Work experience attained in the restoration field before applying to a Master's program could put you ahead of other applicants in the admissions process. Find work as an assistant in a museum or with an independent restorer. Some undergraduate schools may offer job placement or internship opportunities to their students.
The University of Delaware, the University of Arizona, the University of California at Los Angeles, Buffalo State College, New York University and Texas A&M offer master's degree and certificate programs in art conservation.
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Complete a graduate-level apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are typically part of a master's program in art conservation and are arranged by the school or in collaborative effort between the school and student. This apprenticeship is in addition to internships or apprenticeships gained before entry into the graduate program.
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Learn a foreign language. Art restorers have opportunities to work all over the world and in conjunction with fellow conservators in foreign countries. Learning French, German, Italian or Spanish could benefit you in gaining access to joint conservation projects between museums, nonprofits or other art conscious organizations.
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Supplement training. Continue your restoration education after being hired as a restorer. The restoration and museum field can grow and change according to new technologies, products and information. Staying informed builds your reputation and makes you a valuable asset to your employer.
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