Photographic Materials
I have extensive experience developing and undertaking treatment plans for a broad range of photographic materials spanning 19th, 20th and 21st century technologies.
Conservation work includes the creation of thorough treatment proposals based on minimal intervention and assessment of risk, followed by detailed treatment documentation. I aim to perform reversible, sympathetic treatments informed by an object's materiality and context. Techniques include surface cleaning, support repair, emulsion consolidation, glass cleaning and stabilisation, tape removal, stain reduction and case repair.
Previous conservation treatment projects include the preparation of works for the Photography Centre at the Victoria & Albert Museum and the treatment of a substantial collection of creased press photographs for the Archive of Modern Conflict.
Works of Art on Paper
I have a strong background working with paper-based artworks including prints, paintings and wallpapers. Prior to treatment, I use analytical techniques to identify paper characteristics, artistic process and media such as dyes, pigments and binders. As well as a thorough material understanding, a focus on historical context is necessary to ensure responsible conservation. As with all object types, I ensure meticulous documentation is maintained throughout.
Specialised treatments for paper-based artworks include sympathetic cleaning techniques, paper repairs and infills, linings, stain reduction and media consolidation.
Example projects include the lining of posters and prints at the Victoria & Albert Museum and in-situ repairs to wallpaper for the National Trust.
Archival Materials
Working with large archival collections has given me a thorough understanding of common objects such as maps, plans, ledgers and documents. Preserving the information held within these objects is integral when designing treatments and preservation plans. Stabilising objects for digitisation is often the focus of treatments in order to both increase accessibility and preserve the original material.
Treatments include surface cleaning techniques, large-scale repairs and linings, tape removal and replacement of other degrading materials such as rusting metal fastenings where appropriate.
A key project I managed was the conservation of the National Coal Board collection at the Glamorgan Archives. Treatments included the cleaning and repair of maps, plans, volumes, documents and photographic materials.
