Conservation of Cultural Heritage Objects

Overview

About

Preserving works of art is necessary for the appreciation of our tangible heritage by future generations. Materials used to produce works of art are often intrinsically susceptible to chemical degradation; conservation aims to stabilize and understand how we can preserve cultural heritage and works of art. Climate change, risk, and increased demand for access to works of art in exhibitions are particular challenges that conservators will need to address.

A unique opportunity to specialize

The specialization—following ENCoRE requirements—has a different material focus. The focus will be modern materials. In 2019 and 2020, the conservation of easel paintings was offered. Different specializations will be offered in the future, including stone and wall paintings, archaeological and ethnological objects, textile and prevention conservation.

The Conservation of Cultural Heritage Objects programme of the University of Gothenburg incorporates professional codes of ethics and scientific methods of analysis in assessing the condition of artifacts and implementing preventive and remedial methods for conservation. You will develop methodological and technical skills while incorporating critical thinking in conservation, reflecting on how your decisions influence context and treatment.

Firm grounding in research and collaboration

Our programme is carried out in close cooperation with national and international organizations including the Swedish National Heritage Board (RAA), and enjoys an array of international connections, for example University College London and universities in the Nordic countries. We also have Erasmus agreements with conservation programmes across Europe. 

If you’re interested in theoretical rather than practical art conservation, take a look at our sister master’s programme in Conservation.