Training in the Conservation of Paintings - Calouste Gulbenkian ...

TRAINING IN THE CONSERVATION OF PAINTINGS
2. The ICA Laboratory contains a small library of literature relevant
to conservation, and a considerable archive has been built up
since 1952 of the treatment of objects.
Staff
3. There is a permanent staff of a conservator, who is Director of
ICA, an assistant conservator, and a secretary.
Training Course
4. The ICA offered for the first time in 1970 a three-year training
programme in conservation. This was made possible by a grant from
the Ford Foundation. The first year of this course is a qualifying
year. During the second and third years the trainees will take part
in the conservation programmes of the ICA Laboratory, including
regular visits of inspection to the member museums. About half the
trainees' time will be spent on practical work. The trainees are expected
to undertake an independent project either at Oberlin or
elsewhere during January, and during the summer vacation. They
are also expected to participate in seminars (about two a year) held
at member institutions.
5. The staff and students have access to the Oberlin College Art
Library in the Allen Art Building; and all trainees will be encouraged
to augment their academic studies by attending courses available at
Oberlin College or, with the Director's approval, at other neighbouring
institutions. They may apply for enrolment in the Oberlin
College Graduate Programme, leading to a master's degree.
Award
6. On the satisfactory completion of the course the trainee receives
a certificate and statement of competence as a practising conservator
from the ICA. This certificate is independent of any academic
degrees obtained by trainees.
Trainees
7. The training course is restricted to three trainees a year, making
a total over a three year period of nine.
Entry Qualifications
8. Individual aptitude rather than academic achievement is required;
but the minimum qualifications are indicated as: general education
of the level of a B.A. degree; knowledge of art history of the level
of an undergraduate major, chemistry or physics of the level of a
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