Join art and heritage conservator Fiorella Lavado for a new course exploring the fascinating world of art and heritage conservation. Fiorella, who has just finished working on the conservation of the sculpted dinosaurs at Crystal Palace Park, brings to the course practical insights that will be invaluable, whether you are interested in moving on to study conservation yourself, have to discuss projects with conservationists or are just fascinated by the subject.
Through illustrated lectures, discussion, case studies, object-based activities and a supervised practical workshop, the course introduces the principles that guide the care of cultural heritage, from furniture, textiles, and sculpture to historic interiors and buildings. You will consider the practical challenges faced by conservators, alongside the ethical questions that shape their work: what should be preserved, for whom, and how?
With sessions every fortnight across two terms, the course explores the materials found in heritage collections and sites, including stone, wood, metals, ceramics, textiles, paper, plastics, and painted surfaces. It considers how these materials change over time, how conservators investigate their condition, and the methods used to prevent deterioration, stabilise fragile materials, and carry out sensitive repairs.
The practical workshop uses modern and purpose-made sample materials to introduce basic conservation processes, including condition assessment, surface cleaning, joining broken fragments, and simple fills. Participants will consider the ethical and practical decisions involved in each stage of treatment.
Sessions will also examine conservation in museums, collections, and historic buildings, as well as wider contemporary issues including sustainability, repatriation, community consultation, digital documentation, and changing ideas of cultural value. The programme will include contributions from invited conservation and heritage professionals, alongside site visits or a symposium-based session where possible.
Bringing together art, science, history, and practical decision-making, this course is suitable both for those taking it for pleasure and for anyone seeking an introduction to conservation. It may be particularly useful for museum and heritage professionals, curators, collectors, artists, and those considering further study or work in the field.
All are welcome. 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 Programme Manager, Dr Michael Paraskos, at m.paraskos@imperial.ac.uk
For enrolment and booking enquiries: Contact Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk
Imperial certificates