Kress Conservation Fellowship in Objects Conservation (1 Year)

Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/KressConservationFellow.

The Samuel H. Kress Conservation Fellow in Objects Conservation, is a full-time, 12-month visiting A&P appointment in the Conservation department at The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art. Under the supervision of the Conservator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts and the Chief Conservator, and in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice, the Fellow conducts conservation examination, study, documentation, and treatment of three-dimensional objects and occasionally other objects as required.

Conducts physical examination and documentation of objects in The Ringling’s permanent collections, for exhibitions and rotations, and for possible acquisition with oversight from the Conservator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts. Completes physical condition surveys of objects and assists in treatment planning. Participates in periodic inspections of works of art. Completes conservation and restoration procedures of minor to major complexity on objects under the supervision of the Conservator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts. Operates specialized equipment such as digital cameras, stereo binocular microscope, polarizing light microscope, ultraviolet lamps, and others as required.

Performs tasks such as examination, testing, consolidation, surface cleaning, assembly, loss compensation, and inpainting. Makes recommendations to the Conservator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts regarding conservation requirements for works of art. Completes special projects, including treatment of marble busts in the collection.

Collaborates within the Collections team, with other Ringling departments, and with other Institutions to ensure the safe display, storage, dusting, and movement of art objects. Provides guidance regarding appropriate levels of light, temperature, and relative humidity. Recommends safe packing methods for art being stored or transported and advise on hanging and display systems. Implements preventative conservation measures. Prepares objects for display, exhibition, loan, photography, or storage. Participates in emergency preparedness and response activities as required.

Prepares detailed written and photographic documentation of the materials, structure, condition, and conservation treatments for works of art in object files and in The Museum System (TMS). Maintains detailed records and prepares final treatment reports. Performs digital photography, recording condition and various stages of treatment, to create a permanent documentary record, as well as image processing and management.

Assists with the administrative functions of Conservation Laboratory. Ensures Work and Environmental Safety laws, policies and procedures are followed. Receives and assists with inventory and maintenance of equipment, parts, supplies, office supplies, and other materials for laboratory. Makes recommendations for the purchase of new equipment and the modification/replacement of current equipment. Performs routine/preventative maintenance on lab equipment.

May make presentations to staff on conservation-related projects or other subjects. Attends at least one professional conference, symposium, or workshop as approved by the Chief Conservator.

Traveling nationally or internationally when necessary as a courier or serving as a virtual courier based on the needs of the Museum. Courier training is required prior to the incumbent serving in this capacity. Other work-related travel may also be required. Performing other related duties as assigned.

Important skills relevant to this role include:

Excellent speaking and writing skills
Excellent attention to detail and manual dexterity
Ability to work successfully, both independently and in collaboration with others
Ability to prioritize and organize work effectively to meet deadlines

Qualifications

Please know that fellowships are limited to graduates of graduate conservation programs in the U.S. and Canada, or to U.S. citizens graduating from graduate-level conservation programs abroad. The selection of a Fellow must be approved by Foundation for Advancement in Conservation.

Education

Master’s Degree in Conservation

Preferred Qualifications

Training and experience in objects conservation
Familiarity with a variety of material and object types
Experience working in a museum environment and having knowledge of museum conservation practice