What is Art Conservation?
Definition: Conservation is the field of preserving and maintaining artworks and cultural heritage for future generations. It includes preventative measures, scientific analysis, environmental monitoring, and when necessary, restoration treatments. Conservation combines chemistry, materials science, art history, and ethics to ensure long-term stability without altering the artist’s intent.
Conservators work for museums, private collections, foundations, and auction houses. They often specialize by medium—such as paintings, sculpture, paper, photographs, or textiles. Techniques range from gentle surface cleaning to complex interventions involving structural repair or digital restoration.
Proper conservation ensures that works remain in safe condition during storage, exhibition, and transport. It also plays a crucial role in insurance, valuation, and authenticity, especially in cases involving damage or forgery.
