Do you love Art Museums?
Do you find yourself learning about famous painters and copying their techniques?
Do you want to save the great artistic masterpieces?
If you do, then being an Art Restorer may be right for you!
What Do Art Restorers Do?
Art restorers repair damage that has been done to paintings, sculptures, textiles and other works of art. Most of this damage is the product of old age or the poor condition the artwork was in before it was retrieved by a museum or other organization. Art restorers use their knowledge of the different artistic mediums to repair the artwork without compromising the originality of the piece. If it is a painting that has been compromised, an art restorer will have to copy the techniques of the original artist as to not make the restorations look out of place. Some art restorers work for museums, libraries, art galleries and historical societies. Others become freelance art restorers and restore the artworks of private collectors or are hired by other organizations for a specific job.
What Skills Are Needed?
Art restorers must have a great appreciation and love for art. They must understand the specific techniques that certain artists used in their artwork and have a good eye for detail. Art restorers must have patience and be willing to spend long hours working on just the tiniest area of the artwork, working hard to get everything just right. Specific artistic skills depend on the area in which an aspiring art restorer wishes to focus. However, a good understanding of chemistry is needed for all areas of restoration because chemicals are nearly always used in restoring pieces of art.
How Do I Become an Art Restorer?
Art restorers need a good understanding of chemistry, art history and studio art techniques. Depending on their specific area of expertise, different courses and degrees will be necessary. Some art restorers have PhDs while others have only a bachelors. Many colleges and universities that offer fine art degrees will be suitable for aspiring art restorers. Once a degree is obtained, the search will begin. Due to the sensitivity of the work, it is very hard to gain experience in the field before being hired so it is a good idea to showcase your knowledge of art history and art restoration when applying to jobs.
Institutions such as the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC) are great places to learn more about art restoration. http://www.conservation-us.org/
