Introduction to Paintings Conservation (5 ECTS)

Learning outcomes

The student understands how conservation differs from restoration and renovation.
The student is familiar with the task field of different conservation specialties and especially with the aims, tasks and methods of studies in paintings conservation.
The student is familiar with the terminology used in conservation, especially in the conservation of paintings.
The student knows the main materials used in conservation, their basic properties.
The student is able to search for more detailed information, related to the properties of materials, using different data sources.
The student is familiar with the safe use of materials and is able to find materials safety data sheets from the internet.
The student is familiar with the equipment and tools, used in the documentation and conservation of paintings.

Competence objectives: Material competence, methodological competence, formation of professional identity, group working skills

Content

Definitions, used in conservation and common operating environments for a conservator.
National and International organizations in the field of conservation
Introduction to the terminology of paintings conservation
Adhesives, used in conservation, their classification and properties / behaviour.
Pigments, binders and varnishes used in paintings and coatings
Composition of different adhesives and occupational safety.
Identification of materials by simple tests.

Prerequisites

No preliminary knowledge and skills required

Teaching methods

• Contact teaching
• Lecture
• Guided assignments
• Example-based teaching
• Individual Tutorials
• Laboratory work and instructions
• Problem-based learning
• Independent work with literature

Location and time

Metropolia AMK Arabian campus. Hämeentie 135 D. Facilities of the Degree Program in Conservation.

Learning materials and recommended literature

Published articles and study material given by the lecturer for independent reading

Alternative completion methods of implementation

None

Internship and working life connections

Training and cooperation with the professionals of the field, is based on the lectures given by professional visiting lecturers within the possibilities of the resources, as well as on interaction with professionals in the field. Objects to be conserved will be obtained mainly from museum collections or different institutions with collections, through already existing cooperation and agreements with the work field.

Exam dates and retake possibilities

No exam. The evaluation is based on participation, student´s activity during the module and evaluation of practical exercises.

International connections

International publications and literature

Student workload

The weekly working hours of a student is 1,5 cr, which is equivalent to 40 hours of studies and independent work. 40 hours is formed from approx. 20- 22 hours of contact studies with a lecturer. The remaining hours are dedicated for independent literature survey or independent practical work. 1 credit (cr) is equivalent to 26 study / practical work hours (h).

Content scheduling

Definitions, used in conservation and common operating environments for a conservator.
Introduction to the terminology of paintings conservation
Adhesives, used in conservation, their classification and properties. Workshop related to conservation glues.
Composition of different adhesives and occupational safety.
Identification of materials by simple tests.

Assessment methods and criteria

Learning assignment 60 %, continuous assessment 40 %.
Assessment is based on continuous assessment of a student, course attendance, practical exercises and their assessment.
Each student is also assessed from the starting point of her/his abilities.

Evaluation scale

0-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student knows the definitions, organizations, task field and goals of conservation, outlines the basic concepts of the course topic and knows the related theory at a basic level. The student masters the basics of the course and understands the main content of the course. The student is able to acquire information independently.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student knows the operating environment of conservation and understands the importance and role of the conservation sector in the field of cultural heritage. The student outlines the scope and goals of painting conservation and masters the key concepts and definitions of the course topic. The student masters the introduction module in theory and practice and has achieved a good level of knowledge and skills. The work has been sufficiently independent. The student is able to acquire information independently and is able to critically analyse this information.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student knows the operating environment of painting conservation and understands the importance and role of conservation in the field of cultural heritage. The student knows the definitions, scope and objectives of conservation. The student masters the introduction to conservation both in theory and in practice and has achieved a good level of knowledge and skills.
The student is able to work independently in both written and skill-based assignments. The student is able to acquire information independently and to analyse and apply information. The student participates in the discussion with arguments using the concepts of the field. The student works consistently, showing initiative and creative problem-solving ability.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

The student knows the definitions, task field and goals of conservation, outlines the basic concepts of the course topic and knows the related theory at a basic level. The student masters the basics of the course and understands the main content of the course. The student is able to acquire information independently.