Introduction to Heritage Conservation

Join art and heritage conservator Fiorella Lavado for an introduction to the fascinating world of heritage conservation. Drawing on her recent work conserving the sculpted dinosaurs at Crystal Palace Park, Fiorella will share practical insights into how artworks, objects and historic places are studied, cared for and repaired.

Through illustrated lectures, discussion, case studies, object-based activities and a supervised practical workshop, you will explore the care of materials including stone, wood, metals, ceramics, textiles, paper, plastics and painted surfaces. You will learn how conservators assess condition, prevent deterioration, stabilise fragile materials and undertake sensitive repairs.

The practical workshop will use modern sample materials to introduce processes such as surface cleaning, joining broken fragments and making simple fills. Throughout the course, you will also consider the ethical questions that shape conservation, including what should be preserved, for whom and how.

Sessions will examine conservation in museums, country houses, historic buildings and heritage sites, alongside contemporary issues such as sustainability, repatriation, community consultation and digital documentation. Guest speakers and visits may also be included where possible.

Meeting every fortnight across two terms, the course is suitable both for those studying for pleasure and for museum and heritage workers, curators, collectors, artists and anyone considering further study or work in conservation.

All are welcome and no previous experience is necessary.

Course term dates

•  Autumn Term: week beginning 12 October 2026 until week ending 11 December 2026

•  Spring Term: week beginning 11 January 2027 until week ending 12 March 2027

Classes are held every two weeks.

For course content and suitability enquiries: Contact the tutor, Fiorella Lavado at fiorellalavado@gmail.com 

For enrolment and booking enquiries: Contact Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

This course has no exams or assessments, so you can focus on enjoying your learning. Regular attendance may also lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate. (T&Cs apply).