MA Conservation of Fine Art, University of Northumbria

I am currently half way through the first year of my MA, specialising in easel painting. The course has proven to be stimulating and immersive, covering both the theory and practice of conservation. My current project is a lovely 19th-century portrait that I am consolidating in preparation for cleaning.

Thanks to the support of Anna Plowden Trust, I have been able to immerse myself in my studies and, in my spare time, volunteer in the conservation department of the Laing Art Gallery in Newcastle where I can develop further my practical skills, assist in the installation and de-installation of displays, loan checking and store moves. As I want to work in a gallery in the public sector upon graduation, this is an invaluable experience.  I am currently in the process of organising work-based placements that I will be undertaking in the summer.

I feel very privileged to be able to dedicate myself to pursuing this fascinating career.

Julia also received a Plowden Scholarship in her second and final year.  She now works as a Paintings Conservator at Critchlow & Kukkonen Ltd.