Our team consists of conservators and technicians across three separate conservation disciplines that are closely interrelated. We work collaboratively with artists, conservation science, curatorial and digital contributing to and leading practice-based and technical research that deepens understanding of our collection, conservation practices, and is shared with wider audiences.
Painting conservation
Our paintings conservators work with painted artworks on a wide range of supports, including canvas, panel, board, metal, bark and more unconventional, free-hanging or three-dimensional formats, reflecting artistic innovation that challenges traditional two-dimensional notions of a painting. The materials and techniques vary enormously, presenting unique and challenging conservation problems for the team to solve.
Varnish removal treatment as a wider part of the technical research project Whistler’s Finish
Installing paintings for exhibition and displays
Frames conservation
Frames are both functional and decorative objects with artistic value. Historically they often have been redecorated, modified or replaced, and are vulnerable to damage during handling and transport. Our frames conservators care for, investigate and treat Tate’s historic, modern, and artist-made frames, and produce historically accurate replica frames where originals are unsuitable or missing.
Replica of an existing frame for Linton's Temples of Paestum
Conservation Workshop
The Conservation Workshop provides specialist technical expertise, including woodworking, metalwork, glazing, packing, and installation, supporting and collaborating with all conservation teams across Tate.
Conservation Workshop collaborating with Painting Conservation and Art handling to lead the install of an unstretched contemporary painting
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