PROGRAMME

Each day of the programme consists of three main parts; a series of plenary lectures and a selection of parallel sessions plus a third session which varies. The lectures will provide a basis of current thinking in theory and key issues in contemporary art conservation. Participants can choose from a variety of parallel sessions including interactive workshops to learn about the methodology in decision-making, interview techniques, documentation protocols, to learn and discuss about training programmes and to take part in behind-the-scenes tours. A poster exhibition will be organised where new research, conservation treatments or case studies can be presented; a selection of posters will be presented in snapshots (short plenary presentations) on day 1 after lunch.  At the end of day two, parallel networking sessions give participants the opportunity to meet new international peers and to strengthen existing professional relationships. Finally, the event will be closed with an interactive plenary session.

The three-day programme is based upon three phases in the 'conservation continuum': different aspects of conservation that take place during the 'lifespan' of an artwork. The point of departure is the concept that conservation issues (and in particular those related to contemporary art) cannot be dealt with without considering the relationship to artistic and museum practice. The term 'conservation' is being used here in a broad sense. The symposium programme illustrates the premise that conservation is an intrinsic aspect though the various stages in the 'life' of an artwork.

Day 1: Artistic production and collection development

Day one focuses on conservation in relation to the production of contemporary art as well as the transition process when a contemporary work of art enters a museum collection.

Day 2: Care and conservation

The second day deals with conservation in a more familiar sense by looking to experience from practice and how theory is developed out of the restoration studio and collection management.

Day 3: Access, presentation and the public

Day three will look at how contemporary art can be made accessible to the public and the role of conservators and conservation information in this process.

Speakers at the symposium will come from diverse backgrounds; conservators, art historians, conservation scientists, collection managers and artists. In addition they will represent diverse regions in the world.