Topics in Photographic Preservation now available online

pmg-siteDear colleagues,

It is with great enthusiasm that we announce Topics in Photographic Preservation, the Photographic Materials Group (PMG) biennial publication since 1986, is now available online: http://resources.conservation-us.org/pmg-topics/ 

To date PMG has published 15 volumes of Topics in Photographic Preservation with volume 16 to be printed soon. This new website, managed by PMG with AIC support is hosted by CoOL (Conservation OnLine), and makes volumes 1-14 available to the public online for the first time. Future volumes will continue to be added 2-3 years after their initial publication.

This new Topics website also points users to additional photographic preservation articles published in the Journal of the American Institute for Conservation (JAIC), and other resources created by PMG available for sale via the AIC store (www.conservation-us.org/shop/store-catalogs).

Completing this project has taken significant commitment during our tenures as PMG Chair and Publication Committee Coordinator. That said, there are many that assisted in making this valuable resource possible both before and during our tenures and we would like to thank all those who contributed over the years, especially Brenda Bernier, Paul Messier, Lisa Duncan, Brian Raniewicz, and Bonnie Naugle.

Enjoy!

Sylvie Penichon
PMG Chair

 Jae Gutierrez
PMG Publications Committee Coordinator


Please also note these conservation publications are freely available on CoOL:

See more at http://cool.conservation-us.org/publications.html, and learn more about AIC’s specialty group publications on our website! 


 

Study Abroad: San Gemini Preservation Studies Summer 2016 Progam

ExcavationS of the Baths at Roman Carsulae (ITALY)

June 12 – July 23, 2016

and related programs:

Restoration and Analysis of Archaeological Ceramics

May 30 – June 24, 2016

Athens: Heritage and Modernity

Exploration of the coexistence between historic and modern Athens, Greece

June 26 – July 7, 2016

——–

ExcavationS of the Baths at Roman Carsulae (ITALY)

June 12 – July 23, 2016

We are now accepting applications from students and volunteers to participate in our tenth season of excavations of the baths at Roman Carsulae. The application deadline is April 15, 2016.

Project and Location  

The Roman city of Carsulae, founded in the third century BCE along the Via Flaminia in modern Umbria, was extensively excavated by the Soprintendente for Umbria, Umberto Ciotti, from the 1950s to the 1970s.  He uncovered a number of its public buildings including the forum, amphitheatre and theatre and transformed the entire area into an archaeological park.  In 2004, our team, under the direction of Jane K. Whitehead and the Soprintendenza per i Beni Archeologici dell’Umbria commenced a long term project to re-excavate the baths, which are located just south of the city limits and were left exposed after Ciotti’s excavation 40 years earlier.

In 2011, we received grants from Italian sources, in particular the Associazione Valorizzazione del Patrimonio Storico, which enabled us to construct a roof over the remains of the baths.  Because it affords greater protection from the elements, during the 2012 and 2013 seasons we were able to open up areas that were more fragile, thus further exposing the structure. 

We plan to dedicate our 2016 season to excavating the remainder of the areas beneath the protective roof.  We will also collaborate with our colleagues with the San Gemini Preservation Studies program and the Soprintendenza on a comprehensive plan for the conservation of the bath building.

Program  

The field program welcomes both students and volunteers. No experience is necessary, only an enthusiasm for archaeology and the ability to work hard in rigorous conditions. Participants are instructed in excavation strategies, techniques and recording, the formulation of research questions and priorities, identification and handling of artifacts, drafting of site plans, and analytical rendering. Throughout the season, participants are given the opportunity to work with our conservators in the lab cleaning and consolidating small finds, or in the field helping to conserve the mosaics we have discovered over the course of the excavations.

Cost   

The program fee is $950.00 per week, which includes a shared room as well as breakfast daily and lunch and dinner five days a week. All equipment and local transportation is also provided. The minimum length of stay is three weeks, however in order to experience all stages of an excavation we strongly encourage participating in the full six-week program.  We offer a discounted rate to those who opt to enroll for the full six weeks.  Contact us for further details.

There are two possible start dates this year: Sunday, June 12 and Sunday, July 3.

Credit

We are not offering credit this season, however we are happy to work with your university.

Accommodations and Meals  

We stay at the Albergo Duomo, three or four people to a room, in the charming hill town of San Gemini, just three kilometers from Carsulae.  All rooms have private baths and air conditioning, and the hotel is equipped with free wireless.  Our meals are eaten in the elegant dining room of the hotel.

Schedule

Participants work in the field Monday through Friday from 6 AM to 1 PM (or an hour earlier, depending on the weather). After lunch and a well-earned siesta, afternoons are spent in the lab processing each day’s finds and attending classes, lectures, or working with our conservators. Weekends are open for travel or relaxation. Group trips to nearby sites of interest are often available.

For further details and to apply please visit our website

The application deadline is Friday, April 15, 2016.

Thank you.

Jane Whitehead

Director of the Excavations of the Baths at Roman Carsulae

Professor Emerita, Department of Modern and Classical Languages

Valdosta State University

Related programs:

Restoration and Analysis of Archaeological Ceramics

May 30 – June 24, 2016

Our colleagues at San Gemini Preservation Studies offer a number of programs that also take place during the summer in San Gemini.  We encourage you to look at their website and consider participating in one of their courses before or after your time spent working with us.  Of particular relevance to our project is the Archaeological Ceramics Conservation program, which provides an excellent background in analysis and restoration (very useful when working in the field and lab) and offers a rare opportunity for students to be trained in both disciplines by experienced field archaeologists and conservators while working with original archaeological artifacts.

Athens: Heritage and Modernity

Exploration of the coexistence between historic and modern Athens, Greece

June 26 – July 7, 2016 (check-in Saturday, June 25 – check-out Friday, July 8)

This twelve day trip is a thoughtful exploration of the history, preservation and conservation issues facing the city, organized around a series of lectures and visits led by some of the top Athenian archaeologists, architects, historians, conservators and planners who have been dealing with the problem of surveying, planning, and preserving monuments and cultural heritage in the midst of a growing modern city.

The faculty of this program includes internationally renowned scholars, such as Dr. Manolis Korres, who was Chief Architect on the Acropolis Restoration Project, who will be leading lectures and visits to the Acropolis area, as well as Dr. Fani Mallouchou Tufano, an expert on the history of restoration and was director of the Documentation Office of the Acropolis Restoration Service.

More information can be found at their website.

Job Posting: 2016 NCPTT Summer Internships

It’s more than just a job… it’s your future. Get hands-on experience and build your resume while preserving the history of your country.
Summer internships at NCPTT provide students and recent graduates an opportunity to undertake laboratory or field research in archeology, architecture, engineering, collections management, historic landscapes, and materials science.
What do interns do?
Interns work in one of our four program areas:

  • Archeology & Collections
  • Architecture & Engineering
  • Historic Landscapes
  • Materials Conservation

Projects vary from year to year but may include historic resource documentation, hands-on research, data collection, materials and product testing, or testing new technologies.
How long are the internships?
Our internships last ten weeks. For example, a Summer internship may begin on June 6, 2016 and end on August 12, 2016. A Fall position may, for example, begin on September 6, 2016 and end on November 15, 2016. However structured, all internships must be completed by December 31, 2016.
Will I get paid?
Yes! Our interns are short-term employees of Northwestern State University. Compensation is based on experience, including academic experience. Depending on your personal spending habits, the compensation provided is typically more than sufficient to cover living expenses during your stay in Natchitoches.
Is housing provided?
Sorry, but no. While we don’t provide housing, we will help you find a place to rest your head. Natchitoches is a college town and there are usually plenty of sublets and short-term rentals available in the summer.
Applicants should demonstrate skills and knowledge in preservation technology. This may include but not be limited to documentation, condition assessments, literature reviews, laboratory or field research, materials testing, hands-on preservation treatments, or other related skills. Undergraduate applicants must be accepted to or currently enrolled in a four-year accredited university or college program. Graduate applicants must be accepted to or currently enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program in a discipline such as architecture, anthropology, conservation, chemistry, digital humanities, engineering, geology, geography, preservation, etc. Applications from recent graduates will also be considered.
Foreign Nationals
We do accept applications from foreign nationals (non-US citizens). However, these individuals are responsible for obtaining their own visa. Please ensure that your application materials are in English.
How to Apply
Please read and follow the notes below before you submit the following:

  1. Letter of interest that clearly indicates which of our four program areas (see above) you would like to apply to, along with the dates you will be available for work at NCPTT (if other than June 6 through August 12, 2016),
  2. Resume with three reference contacts,
  3. Current official or unofficial transcript.

Mail to:
NCPTT
Attn.: Tad Britt
645 University Parkway
Natchitoches, LA 71457
Or, via email to tad_britt@nps.gov.
NOTE:

  • If submitting your application via email, please keep the size and number of file attachments to a minimum (i.e.combine documents or PDFs into one file).
  • Include the letter of interest in your file attachment, not in the body of your email.
  • Please do not submit a hyperlink to your transcript. Include the transcript in your email attachment.
  • Ensure that all attached files can be opened in common software packages such as Microsoft Word or Adobe Reader.
  • Please do not submit design portfolios as these will be ignored.
  • You do not need to submit reference letters. We will contact the references you provide if we select your application for further review.
  • You may apply for consideration in multiple program areas, but please be explicit about which programs you are interested in.

Applications will be accepted through March 18, 2016 and positions will be announced at the end of April.
The National Park Service and Northwestern State University are Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employers. Women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

A must-see exhibit

During a quick visit to The Morgan Library and Museum yesterday, I entered the small exhibit, “Pierre-Jean Mariette and the Art of Collecting Drawings” (on display through May 1, 2016) expecting to see a number of wonderful drawings. While the drawings were wonderful, the exhibit was much more than that. It was an examination of the ways in which Mariette mounted, altered, restored, and displayed the drawings he acquired for his collection, and thus contained a number of examples of 18th century restorations. These, plus the accompanying video demonstrating how a single sheet of paper with drawings on both sides is separated (or split) into two sheets of paper each containing a single drawing, make it an exhibit that anyone interested in the history of conservation must see.

Are your chemicals labeled correctly?

Hazard Communication Update

The New Year marks an important point in the implementation of OSHA’s revised Hazard Communication Standard (HCS); the labeling provisions of the standard went into effect in 2015. This means that all chemicals you receive as of January 2016 should have the new Global Harmonization System (GHS) label format, and all Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)–formerly MSDSs–must follow a uniform sixteen section format.
The purpose of both the label and SDS are to provide information for making decisions about using the product safely. The label is intended to deliver critical information at a glance, whereas the safety data sheet provides greater detail.
What does this mean to you, the end user?
First and foremost, it is important to understand that the information provided is based on the intrinsic properties of the material – pH, flammability, affinity for a specific organ or tissue, etc.
The risk associated with the product depends on circumstances surrounding its use, storage and handling.
While chemical manufacturers have a responsibility to tell you about the hazards of their products along with basic guidelines for safe use, the manufacturer has no way of knowing exactly how you intend to use the product. It is the end user’s responsibility to evaluate product information in the context for which the product is being used in order to minimize risk.
The example label below is in the required GHS format:

Xylene GHS Label - Small
image: www.mysafetylabels.com

  1. The product is clearly identified with the name Xylene.
  2. This container of xylene has the signal word Danger. The signal word is selected following set criteria for hazard determination. There are two possible signal words – Danger and Warning. Danger indicates more severe hazard than Warning. [1]
  3. The hazard statements for this container of xylene are: Flammable liquid and vapor. Causes skin irritation. May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways. May cause drowsiness or dizziness.While straightforward and clear, issues of vapor generation/minimization and selection of appropriate personal protective equipment require more in-depth analysis of product use. The label is providing an indicator of risks you must consider.
  4. Three “pictograms” correspond to the particular hazard statements:
    1. The flame indicates flammability
    2. The exclamation mark indicates irritation and narcotic effects (drowsiness or dizziness)
    3. The torso with starburst indicates aspiration toxicity.

NOTE: Pictograms have to be considered along with other label information.The exclamation mark pictogram for example may represent: Irritant (skin and eye), Skin Sensitizer, Acute Toxicity, Narcotic Effects, Respiratory Tract Irritant and Hazardous to Ozone Layer (Non-Mandatory). Because a pictogram may have multiple meanings it should never be relied upon as a stand-alone source of hazard information.

  1. Precautionary Statements used on the example label address prevention and response.

Prevention: Keep away from heat, sparks and open flames – No smoking.Keep container tightly closed. Avoid breathing vapors or mist. Wash hands and any other contaminated skin after handling. Wear protective gloves and eye protection. Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

Response: If swallowed, immediately call a poison center or doctor. Do NOT induce vomiting. If inhaled: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. Call a poison center or doctor if you feel unwell. If on skin: Take off all contaminated clothing. Wash with plenty of soap and water or shower. Wash contaminated clothing before re-use. If skin irritation occurs: Get medical attention.

In case of fire, use foam, water spray or fog. Dry chemical, carbon dioxide or sand may be used for small fires only. Do NOT use water in a jet.

  1. If this were a real label, it would also have the name, address and phone number for the manufacturer or distributor of the material.

 
As labels go, this sample provides a quite a bit of precautionary information. HOWEVER, it still requires interpretation with respect to use. Is a large quantity of the material being used outdoors on a hot day or just a few drops on a cotton swab in a laboratory? How much ventilation is necessary? What is the correct type of protective glove?  Answers to these and similar questions will enable you to minimize the risk associated with use of the chemical.
More detailed product information is available on safety data sheets. New formatting requirements provide consistency which is intended to make the SDSs more user friendly. SDSs are also required to include certain minimal information which is explained here.
As a consumer, it is important for you to understand the new label elements and take the time to obtain and review the safety data sheets so that you can make informed decisions about safe chemical use and storage and disposal.
When you receive new chemicals you should replace your old bottles and MSDSs with the new bottles with GHS-compliant labels and updated SDSs. All secondary containers (smaller bottles you fill yourself) should also be appropriately labeled. Labels are available through retailers, such as www.mysafetylabels.com, and laboratory and safety suppliers.  Free GHS label-making software is also available.
Additional information about Hazard Communication and the Global Harmonization System is available at www.OSHA.gov and through the AIC Health & Safety wiki.
 


UPDATE (2/29/2016): In response to requests for more information on how the other labeling systems relate to the new GHS labels–
The purpose of well-known “diamond label” from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), NFPA 704, is to provide basic information for emergency personnel responding to a fire or spill and those planning for emergency response.  The number system is 0-4 where 0 is the least hazardous and 4 the most hazardous.

diamond1
NFPA Diamond Label

HMIS
HMIS Color Bar

The Hazardous Materials Identification System (HMIS) is a numerical hazard rating that incorporates the use of labels with color developed by the American Coatings Association as a compliance aid for the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard. This is a tool that can be used for in-house labeling of secondary containers.  The HMIS Color Bar is similar to the NFPA fire diamond. Before 2002 the fire diamond and the color bar both had sections colored blue, red, white, and yellow. After April 2002, with the release of HMIS III, yellow in the color bar (which stood for reactivity) was replaced by orange, standing for physical hazard. The fire diamond is designed for emergencies when information about the effects of short, or acute, exposure is needed. The color bar is not for emergencies and is used to convey broader health warning information.  Numeric ratings have historically been:

(4) Life-threatening, major or permanent damage may result from single or repeated overexposures (e.g., hydrogen cyanide).

(3) Major injury likely unless prompt action is taken and medical treatment is given.

(2) Temporary or minor injury may occur.

(1) Irritation or minor reversible injury possible.

(0) No significant risk to health.

A new version of HMIS (HMIS Implementation Manual 4th edition) contains the information necessary to align with the written hazard communication program and labeling requirements of the revised OSHA HCS (March 26, 2012). http://www.paint.org/advocacy/occupational-health-and-safety/hmis/
As explained above, manufacturer’s labels on shipped containers include six standard elements:

  1. Product Identifier matching the product identifier on the safety data sheet
  2. Supplier Information including name, address and phone number of responsible party
  3. Signal Word, either “Danger” or “Warning” depending upon severity
  4. Pictogram(s), black hazard symbols on white background with red diamond borders that provide a quick visual reference of hazard information
  5. Hazard Statement(s) that describe the nature of the hazard and/or its severity
  6. Precautionary Statement(s) that provide important information on the safe handling, storage and disposal of the chemical

Exactly what information goes on the label for items 3-6 is determined by the classification/categorization of the chemical which also is much more systematic under GHS.  For instance, any chemical that is classified as a Category 1 Flammable Liquid will carry on the label the signal word “Danger” and the hazard statement “Extremely flammable liquid and vapor.”
Where things start to get tricky between GHS and the NFPA/HMIS systems is in the use of numbers. With GHS, the lower the categorization number, the greater the severity of the hazard. This is opposite of the way numbers and severity relate to each other under NFPA and HMIS. For instance, with NFPA, the higher the number, the greater the severity.
The numbers in the GHS system, as adopted by OSHA, do not show up on the label, instead they are used to determine what goes on the label.  The numbers appear in section 2 of GHS formatted safety data sheets along with other information describing the hazard.
Comparison of NFPA 704 and HazCom 2012 Labels can be found on an OSHA Quick Card.
For more information on the GHS system, see the Health & Safety Committee’s Guide, Revised OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Improves Chemical Label Information–Changes You Need to Know.  Please note that the Committee’s 2005 article “Health & Safety: A Conservator’s Guide to Labeling Hazardous Chemicals,” has not yet been updated to reflect the current GHS system.


 
[1] 29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendix C.The Hazard Communication standard defines the terms warning and danger, requires that they be included on labels and states danger is more severe than warning. Appendix C shows how the label elements are allocated. For example, if the hazard determination per Appendix A results in a category 1 acute toxicity, the word Danger is used

Call for Nominations: Philip M. Hamer & Elizabeth Hamer Kegan Award – Society of American Archivists

Society of American Archivists

Philip M. Hamer and Elizabeth Hamer Kegan Award

Please excuse cross-postings.
The Philip M. Hamer and Elizabeth Hamer Kegan Award Subcommittee of the Society of American Archivists seeks nominations for the 2016 award.
This award recognizes an archivist, editor, group of individuals, or institution that has increased public awareness of a specific body of documents through compilation, transcription, exhibition, or public presentation of archives or manuscript materials for educational, instructional, or other public purpose. Archives may include photographs, films, and visual archives. Publication may be in hard copy, microfilm, digital, or other circulating medium.
Recent winners include:

Eligibility:
Individual archivists and editors, groups of individuals, and organizations are eligible.
Application Deadline:
All nominations shall be submitted to SAA by February 28 of each year.  CLICK HERE to download the application form, which includes instructions for submission.
For more information on SAA awards and the nominations process, please go to http://www.archivists.org/recognition/index.asp.

Job Posting: Conservator – The State Historical Society of Missouri (Columbia, MO)

Global Title: Sr. Manuscript Specialist
Global Grade: 9
Job Code: 4448
Last Updated: 01/16
Job Title: Conservator
Basic Function & Responsibilities

  • Perform technical treatments in the repair of paper documents, art works on paper, books, photographs, and audio and video tapes.

Essential Functions

  • Performs conservation treatments, including but not limited to: cleaning, humidification, removing tape, washing, tissue repair and reinforcement, de-acidification, and encapsulation.
  • Coordinate preventive conservation activities such as environmental control, disaster planning and emergency response, and integrated pest management.
  • Conduct condition assessments for existing and potential new collections.
  • Help to design and manage the conservation laboratory by selecting and maintaining appropriate conservation supplies, tools, and equipment. Evaluate and improve workflows while ensuring treatments meet standards and safe lab protocols.
  • Manage outsourcing of conservation treatments that cannot be performed in-house.
  • Develop workshops and conduct instructional classes on preservation for staff, patrons, local historical societies, and organizations.
  • Performs preparations for exhibits, loans, and permanent storage including customized housings for fragile records.
  • Assist with special projects and events as needed.

Supervision Received

  • General supervision is received from the Associate Director.

Supervision Exercised

  • Supervision may be exercised over student support staff.

Minimum Qualifications

  • A Bachelor degree in Art Conservation or a Masters’ degree with a specialty in conservation in Art, History, Library Science, Museum Studies, or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and abilities can be acquired.
  • Ability to lift and carry 35 to 40-pound boxes is mandatory.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced study in the preservation of art and archival materials and 2-5 years work experience in a preservation program or conservation lab at a research institution or archives.
  • Knowledge of preservation standards, guidelines, and trends in the preservation of non-print formats.
  • Experience in writing and managing grants.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Work typically involves exposure to chemical solvents.
  • Excellent visual, writing, and public speaking skills

Apply for this position on the University of Missouri Human Resource Services page.

Job responsibilities listed herein are a general description of typical job duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and physical demands of the incumbents but should not be considered all-encompassing as actual responsibilities may additionally include other duties as assigned.

ENGAGING CONSERVATION: COLLABORATION ACROSS DISCIPLINES

Penn Museum Symposium
6-8 October 2016
Call for papers and posters – Deadline: 4 April 2016
The Conservation Department of the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (Penn Museum) is celebrating its 50th anniversary in the fall of 2016. To commemorate the establishment of the lab, the Penn Museum is hosting a symposium on issues relating to archaeology, anthropology, and conservation. The symposium will explore how conservation of these materials has evolved over the past half century, the ways in which conservators may inform and support the work of archaeologists and anthropologists, and the development of cross-disciplinary engagement.
Professionals in archaeology, anthropology, or conservation are encouraged to submit abstracts (300 word limit) to conservation@pennmuseum.org by 4 April 2016 for consideration. Presentations will be 20 minutes. Funds toward travel and lodging are available for speakers. Successful applicants will be required to submit the full text and presentation by 30 September 2016. A resulting peer-reviewed publication is planned. Please visit http://penn.museum/loveconservation/ for further guidelines and instructions.
Recommended topics to consider, though others are welcome, include:

  • History of archaeological or anthropological conservation, particularly in university museums
  • Facilitating collaboration between conservators and archaeologists or anthropologists, or other interested parties
  • Planning for conservation in the development of an excavation plan, including funding conservation in the field
  • Education and training
  • Treatment techniques
  • Analysis of materials

In addition to full-length papers, we also invite short-format submissions on topics listed above as well as those related to practical tips and techniques, insights, or questions relating to the symposium theme. Please submit abstracts (300 word limit) to conservation@pennmuseum.org by 4 April 2016 for consideration. These submissions are limited to 5 minutes or less, and an informal approach is appropriate. Successful short-format applicants will be required to submit a digital copy by 30 September 2016 and will be included in the publication following the same guidelines as the full-length papers.

Job Posting: Project Conservator (Full-Time/Temporary) – The Missouri Historical Society (St. Louis, MO)

Project Conservator (Full-Time/Temporary)
The Missouri Historical Society is seeking a Project Conservator with a specialization in the conservation of objects. The Project Conservator will be responsible for the conservation treatment of objects belonging to MHS’s collections in the Missouri History Museum and the Soldiers Memorial Museum in preparation for the latter’s re-opening in 2018. We are looking for an experienced individual who demonstrates professionalism, flexibility, and is detail-oriented to effectively organize the project’s conservation activities, conduct treatments, and other tasks as directed.
The Conservator will be located at the Missouri Historical Society’s existing conservation lab, located in the Library and Research Center. The Project Conservator will be expected to divide their time between projects for Soldiers Memorial Museum and Missouri History Museum. Project start date is immediate upon hire and will conclude at the end of 2017.
Responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to:

  • Examine objects and prepare conservation assessments, as required under the supervision of the Objects Conservator
  • Prepare conservation documentation, including photography, condition reports, treatment proposals, and treatment reports
  • Perform conservation treatments on objects, under the supervision of the Objects Conservator
  • Maintain conservation records for performed treatments and contracted work
  • Enter conservation information into the institution’s collections database system (Mimsy)
  • Organize contract conservation work for textiles, paper, paintings, and other objects as needed
  • Assist with the planning of exhibitions and exhibit spaces, including advisement on mount making, material selections, environmental parameters, and lighting requirements, etc. as needed
  • Assist with the installation of exhibit material under the supervision of the Objects Conservator, Registrar, and/or Collection Manager as needed
  • Assist in the packing, moving, and storage of collections under the supervision of the Objects Conservator, Registrar, and/or Collection Manager as needed
  • Preventive conservation duties as assigned, including environmental monitoring, integrated pest management, and collections emergency preparedness
  • Active participation in public outreach, including public presentations, lab tours, publications, and the ability to explain the importance of conservation to donors and visitors alike
  • Other conservation duties as assigned, including purchasing laboratory supplies, performing inventories, and constructing boxes and mounts for storage upgrades

Qualification Requirements

  • Master’s degree in Art Conservation or equivalent, with a specialization in objects conservation
  • Several years’ experience handling art and artifacts in a museum environment
  • A minimum of one (1) year experience in conservation, preferably in an objects conservation laboratory

Additional Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Thorough knowledge of and adherence to the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic & Artistic Works (AIC)
  • Knowledge of best-practice standards, techniques, materials, and equipment used in the conservation of objects
  • Demonstrated abilities in the examination, analysis, documentation, and treatment of organic and inorganic materials
  • Knowledge of the environmental hazards posed by substances such as solvents and mold and appropriate, safe methods of working with such substances
  • Excellent attention to detail and time management skills – the ability to work on several projects simultaneously will be essential
  • Must be a creative thinker with excellent problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and analytical abilities
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to work individually and as part of a team
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office and collections management database software, especially MIMSY

Deadline to Apply: Open until filled.
Please submit employment application, letter of interest and resume to: hradmin@mohistory.org
Candidates may also respond to: Missouri History Museum-HR P.O. Box 11940 St. Louis, MO 63112-0040
An Equal Opportunity Employer

Accepting Applications: San Gemini Preservation Studies Program (San Gemini, Italy)

The San Gemini Preservation Studies Program is currently accepting applications for our summer 2016 field school. The San Gemini Preservation Studies Program, now in its 18th year, dedicated to the preservation of cultural heritage and offering students the opportunity to study and travel in Italy. Our deadline for applications is March 15, 2016.
Session One (May 30 – June 24)
Building Restoration – Touching the Stones*
Restoration of Traditional Masonry Buildings in Italy
Sketching and Analyzing Historic Buildings
Archaeological Ceramics Restoration
Analysis of Archaeological Ceramics in Italy
Restoration of Archaeological Ceramics
Book Bindings Restoration
The Craft of Making and Restoration Book Bindings
Introduction to the History and Craft of Book Bindings
 
Session Two (July 11 – August 5)
Paper Restoration
Restoration and Conservation of Paper Media
Paper Restoration Workshop
Traditional Painting Restoration
Traditional Materials, Methods of Painting and Art Restoration Issues
Traditional Painting Workshop
Restoration Theory, Ethics and Issues
*Field Projects:
Restoration of the façade of the church of San Carlo (13th century)
Analysis of medieval buildings in San Gemini as part of an urban study of the city
 
Intersession Programs (June 25 – July 8):
Intersession Field Trip – Italy (June 26 – July 5)
A ten day trip visiting Siena, Florence and Rome: places of cultural interest, the urban and historical development of each town, and specialized visits to places of interest to restorers.
Intersession Field Trip – Athens (check-in Saturday, June 27 – check-out Friday, July 8)
A twelve day visit of Athens: an exploration of the history of preservation and conservation issues facing the city led by some of the top Athenian experts in their field.
Intersession Program – The History of Food in Italy (June 27 – July 8)
A two week course giving an overview of the evolution of the food system in Italy. The course will include morning lec­tures and an experimental cooking workshop.
To find out more about our program and review the syllabi, please visit our www.sangeministudies.org.
Our courses are open to students from various disciplines, both undergraduate and graduate. All lessons are taught in English.