The MA Conservation of Fine Art programme (Works of Art on Paper) provides you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career as a conservator of works of art on paper.

This postgraduate programme aims to provide you with advanced knowledge and skills in both practice and research in the conservation of works of art on paper. Northumbria University’s Conservation of Fine Art MA is the only Masters programme in the UK that offers specialisms in both the conservation of Easel Painting and Works of Art on Paper.

The  programme aims to develop your skills in critical awareness, research, ethics and philosophy, art history, conservation science and the care of collections, in addition to honing the meticulous practical skills that are necessary in becoming a professional  conservator.

The combination of meticulous practical skill, a sound knowledge of science, and passion for art and art history will make this Masters programme of interest to those from both a science and arts background.

Integrating a combination  of studio practice, science and art history, the programme covers a range of inter-related subjects. During the course, you will study conservation practice, conservation history, the history of materials and techniques, conservation theory and ethics, conservation science, art history, technical photography, technical art history, preventive conservation and research skills. Additionally, you will be introduced to studio management, the use of methodologies and materials in conservation and good health and safety practice.

Conservation is a multidisciplinary field, continuously informed by developments in cultural heritage, visual arts practice, sustainability, ethics, cultural policy, and materials science. The spirit and day to day practice within the course reflects the professional codes of practice established by the International Institute for Conservation (IIC), the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and United Kingdom Institute for Conservation (ICON). The Conservation of Fine Art MA is a multidisciplinary based programme and on graduation you will leave with the highly specialised knowledge and skills required to  formally enter the conservation profession.

In order to broaden your cultural perspective and enhance your practical learning experience, you will also have the opportunity to carry out a placement in the summer recess. Past students have carried out placements in studios in the UK and globally and have included the British Museum, the Royal Ontario Museum, the National Museum of Australia the Tate and a number of world renowned independent conservation studios.

We welcome applications from students from a wide range of academic backgrounds. Typically, but not exclusively, students will have a first degree in  Fine Art, Art History or one of the Sciences. Students with a science background should be able to demonstrate skill in practical subject area (eg. painting, drawing, printmaking). Students from an art practice background should demonstrate a sound knowledge of science.

You may also be interested in Conservation of Fine Art (Easel Paintings), please click here for more information.

If you’d like to browse what other postgraduate programmes we offer or have any queries, please get in touch.

This pathway offers the opportunity for you to specialise in conservation of works of art on paper. The programme consists of four intensive modules that explore a range of key areas of study, including conservation theory and practice, conservation science, conservation ethics, art history and preventive conservation.

The programme covers training in a range of conservation approaches and practical treatment techniques, all of which are  informed by current research and ethical practice in the field. You will gain a plethora of valuable technical and academic skills including conservation documentation, technical examination and photography, microscopy, in addition to the structural repair, stabilisation, consolidation and cleaning of works of art.

Most importantly, you will develop sound decision-making skills and ultimately the confidence and knowledge to critically evaluate your approach to conservation treatment to become a competent, confident and reflective practitioner. You will also develop a sophisticated understanding of the history, identification and deterioration of artist’s materials that are associated with works on paper. Significant emphasis is also placed on research ethics, advocacy, and developing your communication skills.

The programme offers a combination of conservation theory and practice. Through a series of focused practical workshops, you will develop a broad range of skills in preparing and using conservation materials and equipment. Workshop activities are performed on a range of materials, from original works of art to historically accurate recreations that allow students to explore the limits of treatment that would not otherwise be possible with original works of art.

Assessment focuses on your theoretical understanding of the condition and treatment of works on paper, conservation science and preventive conservation. Evaluation and reflection on your decision making also assists in the development of key research and communication skills that are required by employers in the sector.

You will begin to develop ideas for your dissertation research in the first year and will write a substantial dissertation at the end of the second year demonstrating your knowledge and understanding of a focused area of conservation theory or practice.

This course is taught by a team of specialist academics who have extensive practical experience in the conservation heritage science sectors.

In additional to being practicing conservators and conservation scientists, academic staff are research-active and regularly carry out research and consultancy in the conservation and heritage science fields, enhancing research-rich learning and teaching on the programme.

The content of the course also aligns with the standards of professional bodies in the sector.

Throughout the duration of this course, you will receive ongoing support from teaching staff to ensure you leave equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully pursue a career within the Conservation sector or a related discipline.