Art Conservation & Restoration Sergey Konstantinov
Art studio Sergey Konstantinov
www.mindspring.com/~fineart3
http://artstudiosergeykonstantinov.blogspot.com/
fineart3@mindspring.com
skype-sergey.konstantinov2
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415 928 8290
What is the difference between a CONSERVATOR and a RESTORER.
Many people are confused about the difference between an art conservator
and a restorer. To the layperson there is seemingly no difference and
the terms are used interchangeably. However, this is very much not the
case and the gulf between "restoration" and "conservation" is rapidly
widening. Art conservators are generally academically trained to at
least the level of a Master's degree (M.A.C. – Master’s of Art
Conservation – see FAQ on Where do I get conservation training?). They
have training in the scientific, art historical and artistic aspects and
requirements of works of art. Fine art conservation is relatively new
(only the last 50-60 years, since WWII) whereas restoration has arguably
existed since the beginning of the creation of art when artists
restored their own or others' works. Restorers tend to have been
trained as artisans (often apprenticed to artists) or have learned by
experience. This type of learning is a necessary but not sufficient
condition to treat works of art in a manner that will reliably ensure
their survival.
Conservators attempt to perform the minimum treatment necessary and use
as many reversible materials as possible – this is considerably
different than a restoration approach. Conservation addresses the work
of art not only from the aesthetic but from a materials point of view.
The structure of a work of art must be thoroughly understood and
preserved in order to preserve the image.
American Institute for Conservation of Historic & Artistic Works.
