Choosing the right conservator-restorer to look after a whole collection or one item is an important decision; the wrong choice could result in permanent damage affecting visual qualities, monetary value and historical or cultural significance. The UK and Ireland has a long tradition of producing highly skilled conservator-restorers. Conservation accreditation provides a clear method of identifying technically capable and experienced professional conservator-restorers.
The benefits of using an accredited conservator-restorer led practice includes the assurance that the individual:
The lead member of each practice listed on the Conservation Register is accredited.
Unlike an academic qualification, accreditation is subject to certain ongoing requirements, these include: a commitment to continuing professional development (cpd), adherence to professional guidelines and codes of ethics, and continued membership of an awarding professional body.
PACR |
BAFRA |
BAPCR |
ICHAWI |
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Conservation accreditation awarding professional body |
Professional Accreditation of Conservator-Restorers operated by the Institute of Conservation (Icon), the Archives and Records Association (ARA) and the British Horological Institute (BHI) |
British Antique Furniture Restorers’ Association |
British Association of Paintings Conservator-Restorers |
Institute for the Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works in Ireland |
Mandatory professional membership |
Icon, or ARA, or BHI |
BAFRA |
BAPCR |
ICHAWI |
Specialist area of conservation |
Any area of cultural heritage, collections or single items including: architectural stonework, archives, books, clocks, drawings, furniture, glass, metal, paintings, preservation, prints, sculpture, textiles |
Furniture |
Paintings (oil / acrylic etc) |
Any area of conservation of cultural heritage |
Experience required |
As a guide, about 5 years after completion of a formal conservation training course (e.g. undergraduate or post graduate degree) or 10 years including 5 years served on apprenticeship |
At least 5 years full time restoration practice |
At least 7 years including training in studio or on a university course |
Graduate from recognized conservation training institute and at least 3 years practical experience |
Assessment |
Application form and assessment visit by 2 trained PACR assessors |
Presentation of references; examined by BAFRA |
Assessment visit by 2 BAPCR assessors |
Provided with a mentor; interviewed and assessed by external examiner |
Designation |
Accredited Conservator-Restorer (ACR) of [Icon or ARA or BHI] |
Full and full specialist member of BAFRA |
Fellow of BAPCR |
Accredited member of ICHAWI |
An accredited conservator-restorer must maintain appropriate professional membership of one of the recognised accrediting organisations, e.g. accredited member (ACR) of Icon, and ongoing continuing professional development and learning (cpd).
Accreditation is awarded to a conservator-restorer by the relevant organisation following a professional practice assessment process, to demonstrate their proficiency against the professional standards.
Central to becoming accredited through the PACR process is an understanding and meeting of the PACR professional conservation-restoration standards and demonstrating sound professional judgement and ethics.
Professional standards |
Professional judgement and ethics |
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