Conservation and Restoration of Clear Coatings on Furniture and ...

13
3.0 The Fellowship Program
3.1 Introduction – The nature <strong>of</strong> my program overseas –who, what, where, when.
During the course <strong>of</strong> my four week overseas program, I met with numerous people, all <strong>of</strong> whom are considered world
leaders in their field. These specialists were selected by asking <strong>and</strong> posting enquires to the broader international
furniture conservation field for their advice <strong>and</strong> input on whom would be the most valuable people to meet for my
specific investigations. The responses far exceeded what I could practically complete within time <strong>and</strong> geographical
restraints. Although I could not see everyone, I feel confident that this selection <strong>of</strong>fered me the best resources at
this moment in time.
I targeted individuals <strong>and</strong> groups for their specific knowledge. All experts chosen are in the related field <strong>of</strong> furniture
conservation, though each <strong>of</strong> my visits will target a specified subject to which the individual or organisation is
renowned for. My own personal intuition, plus advice from others, in anticipating my reception was also factored in
when short listing these visits. Within the furniture conservation fraternity, a single degree <strong>of</strong> separation exists, some
members I am already acquainted with recommended my visit to their peers. A level <strong>of</strong> support which is most
encouraging. To develop <strong>and</strong> build personal relationships will be <strong>of</strong> high importance. I recognise the benefit <strong>of</strong> an
international network, not only for my own pr<strong>of</strong>essional development in solving conservation issues, but also as a
referral for other conservators working in Australia who may need specialised advice for specific problems.
My program will entail personal meetings that will be purely on an interview level, others will involve visits to
workshops <strong>and</strong> laboratories involving practical demonstrations.
Royal Collection Workshops, Saint James Palace, London, UK September 26 – 27t 2005
■ Workshop visit with joint staff meeting/discussion <strong>of</strong> relevant topics
Victoria <strong>and</strong> Albert Museum, London, UK September 28th 2005
■ Meeting with Senior Furniture Conservator Shayne Rivers. Discussion.
Buckinghamshire University, High Wycombe, UK September 29th 2005
■ Meeting with Pr<strong>of</strong>essor Jake Kaner, president <strong>of</strong> the 20th Century Furniture Research Group.
■ Workshop visit with Paul Tear, course leader at Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College (BCUC)
■ Lecture <strong>and</strong> slide presentation to students <strong>and</strong> staff on the issues relating to my ISS Fellowship
■ In-depth discussions with coatings specialist, Cambell Norman – Smith