Email digest for the Global Conservation Forum (ConsDistList) egroup. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Humidification of curled film based negatives 2. RE: Identifying quotes by Ernest van de Wetering and Bernard Berenson 3. Skilled Stone Conservators for Urgent UK & International Projects – Plowden & Smith 4. ICOM-CC Event: International Forum on Archaeological Heritage in Open Landscapes, 12 January 2026 5. Job Opportunity: Manager, Conservation Science, Canadian Conservation Institute 6. Job Posting: Conservation Scientist, English Heritage, London 7. Job Opportunity: Assistant/Associate Conservator, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1.From: Sophie Antulov Posted: Thursday January 8, 2026 6:35 AM Subject: Humidification of curled film based negatives Message: Hello all! I am seeking some insights into the humidification chamber technique for unrolling/uncurling film-based negatives. I have two panoramic roll negatives and a small section of 35mm motion picture which need to be digitised and have stiff folds. They are all Cellulose Nitrate. I was recommended to use our suction table chamber with a humidifier creating water vapour to gently relax the negatives for flattening. My instincts said to keep RH around 75-80% max and hoping they may relax in a few hours. I've been trying to do some research for recommended parameters or general guidelines, however it seems there is very little published on this technique. I could only find two papers which discuss the use of a vapour chamber: Pietsch 2015, 'Flattening Rolled Negatives on Filmbase', Topics in Photographic Preservation, vol. 16 Silva, Garrucho and Carvalho 2022, 'Unveiling Roland Oliveira's photographic images: development of an unrolling and flattening treatment for silver gelatine 35 mm negative films', CONSERVAR PATRIMÓNIO 39 (2022) 71-80 While these articles have great information around the reasoning and benefits of vapour humidification for relaxing negatives (Pietsch using water and Silva et al. using glycerol/acetone/water solution), neither sadly includes the %RH maintained in their respective chambers. The PMG AIC Wiki page for humidification also has excellent explanation of various techniques for flattening photographs including vapour chambers, but no details on RH%. I am curious if this is simply a technique which requires learning through experience, or if others have more insights from their practice. Also please send through any literature or research I may have missed! Many thanks, Sophie ------------------------------ Sophie Antulov Conservator State Library WA Australia ------------------------------ 2.From: Dorothea Burns Posted: Thursday January 8, 2026 7:13 AM Subject: RE: Identifying quotes by Ernest van de Wetering and Bernard Berenson Message: for Berenson source, please see my paper, The Cookery of Art: Bernard Berenson and Daniel Varney Thompson Jr. in Bernard Berenson Formation and Heritage, Joseph Connors and Louis S, Waldman, eds, Villa I Tatti, 2014, pp.283-307, especially p.287. Dr Thea BurnsAdjunct Associate ProfessorDept of Art History and Art ConservationQueens UniversityKingston, Ontario ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 1/6/2026 3:10:00 PM From: Rebecca Rushfield Subject: Identifying quotes by Ernest van de Wetering and Bernard Berenson In the Introduction to his book, In The Kitchen of Art, Marco Grassi writes "Ernst van de Wetering, the Dutch art historian recently remarked, perhaps only partly in jest , that in today's world a few thousand people earn their living touching works of art while earnestly preventing untold thousands of others from doing just that. This tiny minority of which van de Wetering speaks is busy, in museums and ateliers all over the world, in what Bernard Berenson with a tinge of contempt called 'the kitchen of art'." Can anyone tell me the specific contexts in which van de Wetering and Berenson made their remarks? Rebecca Rushfield ------------------------------ Rebecca Rushfield Conservation Consultant Freelance/Private Practice/Self-employed/Independent Flushing NY ------------------------------ 3.From: Cymbeline Storey Posted: Thursday January 8, 2026 11:33 AM Subject: Skilled Stone Conservators for Urgent UK & International Projects – Plowden & Smith Message: Plowden & Smith, a leading conservation and restoration company based in London, is currently seeking experienced and highly skilled Stone Conservators to join our team for a number of urgent and upcoming projects. Due to a growing portfolio of high-profile work, we are looking for trained professionals with a proven track record in the conservation and restoration of stone sculpture, architectural elements, and monuments. We have immediate and short-term project requirements in the UK, and therefore particularly welcome expressions of interest from London- and UK-based Conservators who are available to start soon. In addition, we are also seeking individuals available for future international projects, with a particular focus on ongoing and upcoming work in the Middle East during 2026. Requirements: Formal training in stone conservation (BA/MA or equivalent). Demonstrable experience in practical stone conservation treatments and site work. Strong documentation and reporting skills. Willingness and flexibility to work on international project sites for varying durations. Application Process: Interested candidates are encouraged to express their interest as soon as possible, particularly those available for UK-based projects in the near term. Please submit your application by email to Rebecca Ranieri at [email protected], including the following information: Current CV detailing relevant experience and qualifications Day rate (please specify currency) Current location/base Availability, specifically noting your capacity to work on UK projects and on overseas/Middle East projects in 2026 Plowden & Smith Unit 5, Liongate Enterprise Park 80 Morden Road, Mitcham Surrey, CR4 4NY, UK https://plowden-smith.com <https://plowden-smith.com> ------------------------------ Cymbeline Storey Conservator/Project Manager Plowden & Smith Ltd. Mitcham United Kingdom ------------------------------ 4.From: Kate Seymour Posted: Thursday January 8, 2026 2:44 PM Subject: ICOM-CC Event: International Forum on Archaeological Heritage in Open Landscapes, 12 January 2026 Message: ICOM-CC Event: International Forum on Archaeological Heritage in Open Landscapes Online Expert Forum: El Gigante Vestido 12 January 2026 09:00 CLST (Chile) | 13:00 CET (Paris) Online | Free with registration Hosted by Universidad Finis Terrae, ICOM Chile, and ICOM-CC How can we better protect fragile archaeological landscapes in an era of climate change, tourism pressure, and environmental risk? Join leading national and international experts for a high-level online forum exploring the protection of open-air archaeological heritage, with a special focus on the Atacama Desert and the El Gigante Vestido geoglyph. This forum brings together cultural activism, environmental stewardship, and heritage conservation to advance practical, globally relevant solutions. Why attend? Participants will contribute to a global dialogue and help shape concrete outcomes, including: — a policy brief; — monitoring protocols; and — signage guidelines for El Gigante Vestido and related geoglyph networks. Featured contributors include: Andrew Thorn (ARTCARE, France & Australia) – Managing cultural landscapes through custodianship and community respect David Cohen (Universidad de los Andes, Colombia) – Global risk management for rock art and archaeological sites Terry Little (Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria) – Valorisation, community meaning, and preservation in Africa Kate Seymour, Chair of ICOM-CC The programme includes expert presentations, moderated discussions, and an interactive panel with audience Q&A. Who should attend? Conservators, archaeologists, heritage professionals, researchers, policymakers, and anyone engaged in sustainable cultural heritage protection. Registered participants will receive the Zoom link prior to the event. Please do not share the link-encourage colleagues to register instead. Zoom access is generously supported by the Stichting ICOM-CC Fund. Register now and be part of shaping international standards for archaeological heritage in open landscapes. Register using this link: https://lnkd.in/eb4eUr3z With warm regards, Kate Kate Seymour Art Conservation Education Preserving Heritage, Shaping Tomorrow – Cultivating Expertise, Safeguarding Cultural Treasures. Email: [email protected] <[email protected]> Website: www.art-conservation-education.com <http://www.art-conservation-education.com> 5.From: Kenza Dufourmantelle Posted: Thursday January 8, 2026 2:51 PM Subject: Job Opportunity: Manager, Conservation Science, Canadian Conservation Institute Message: CCI is hiring! Are you passionate about heritage science and conservation? We're looking for a Manager, Conservation Science (PC-04) to lead an interdisciplinary team at the Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) in Ottawa, Ontario. What you'll do: ✔ Manage a team of heritage scientists ✔ Lead research and services that advance conservation science ✔ Collaborate with stakeholders across Canada and internationally Position Details: 📍 Location: Ottawa, Ontario 💼 Tenure: Indeterminate 💰 Salary: $117,799 – $138,404 🌐 Closing Date: January 30, 2026 🔗 Apply online: GC Jobs (Manager, Conservation Science <https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Femploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca%2Fpsrs-srfp%2Fapplicant%2Fpage1800%3FtoggleLanguage%3Den%26poster%3D2373789%23aboutPosition&data=05%7C02%7Ckenza.dufourmantelle%40pch.gc.ca%7C2f537f9cc0e14e97dad808de4ee03b71%7C7969f40aef104cada9c2ea2ca603743a%7C0%7C0%7C639034922175090314%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FHI%2BVaLes6jBQ79MVBoTD%2BwxKyWRhRCBsF61Bkk1h4c%3D&reserved=0>) Please note that the position is available to persons residing in Canada, and Canadian citizens and Permanent residents abroad. How to apply Learn more about applying for Government of Canada jobs <https://www.canada.ca/en/public-service-commission/jobs/services/gc-jobs/applying-government-canada-jobs-how-to-apply.html>. Hiring organization contact Name: Guy Charuest-Bonhomme - Staffing Advisor Email address: [email protected] <[email protected]> Name: Vanessa Lesage - Staffing Assistant Email address: [email protected] <[email protected]> ------------------------------ Kenza Dufourmantelle Director, Research, Conservation and Scientific Services (RCSS) Canadian Conservation Institute Ottawa Canada ------------------------------ 6.From: David Thickett Posted: Thursday January 8, 2026 2:51 PM Subject: Job Posting: Conservation Scientist, English Heritage, London Message: Please see attached job advert for details and application instructions. Dave David Thickett | Senior Conservation Scientist | Collections Conservation Rangers House Flat Chesterfield Walk, London, FOR LETTERS ONLY SE10 8QX Tel: 07770 397964 note I work compressed hours and do not work fridays www.english-heritage.org.uk <https://uk.content.exclaimer.net/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.english-heritage.org.uk%2F&tenantid=pti8bxdCEe6pvWBFvdKH0g&templateid=3b1dab038f79ef119c3600224841a690&excomponentid=rMLoLtV1DY4u5kZtzPfXbqexVpZjrvwPYlt4kFd6nBA&excomponenttype=Image&signature=mhpMFf18uw_S0OJQXu4Mt3v8hRrMMlvFlUIIlqBaKQfTgzUtILfCORq1sKaEqM0ytUPaYUWXmg9YbFxFdaBn6fgKOGodb3p3NmdZthhQ-_QnUf9zYWH6PDwL7sUAwCd4LSmXOyTkWR8u27PL0_6xaax58ihmAwvevPWs8Vm_4H_9ps9nDB6KwLw7p-owzweVtLjj2DCL0ht8OEvSPf0dDnFG4hKtjm_G26NKyeDVSYst3lo1gtCh8Yi-7r7okCgUuzQWqNf2AzbdnYyKXqVh9_gtQMOUm7XFQAFsgNVOvU2afexIHlpTP6kRkLwNb_DM3Z6NKTECfZhmo7U66NJLXQ&v=1&imprintMessageId=b3ba55a4-295a-4999-84b3-eb9a7143bc09> Heritage is for everybody, and we are here for heritage. That's why, as a charity, we care for over a million objects and hundreds of historic sites in every part of England. And it's why we open them up, share their stories and find new ways for everybody to enjoy, learn, play and create. The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a limited company, no. 07447221, registered in England and Wales. Our registered office is The Engine House, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon SN2 2EH This email (and any attachments) is confidential and may contain personal views which are not the views of English Heritage unless specifically stated. If you have received it in error, please delete it from your system and notify the sender immediately. Do not use, copy or disclose the information in any way nor act in reliance on it. Any information sent to English Heritage may become publicly available. 7.From: Jeffrey Warda Posted: Thursday January 8, 2026 5:20 PM Subject: Job Opportunity: Assistant/Associate Conservator, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project Message: Dear All, Please see below a job description for an Assistant or Associate Conservator for the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi project, based in Abu Dhabi. The full posting is also attached. SUMMARY OF POSITION The position of Assistant/Associate Conservator, will be part of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project team within The Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, dedicated to working together with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi to prepare for the opening of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. This position is based in Abu Dhabi. Reporting to the Senior Conservator, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project (a position based in New York), the role works collaboratively with teams in both Abu Dhabi and New York across curatorial, registration, exhibition management, exhibition design, and operations to support conservation and collection care for the future museum and help realize the inaugural program of collection displays and temporary exhibitions. In addition, the Assistant/Associate Conservator collaborates on the realization of artist commissions and contributes to due diligence for new acquisitions entering the collection. This position is open to any discipline in conservation (e.g., paintings, paper, photography, objects, time-based media or preventative conservation), with a preference for objects conservation and/or experience in installations and contemporary art. SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS · MA in Art Conservation or equivalent graduate qualification. · Minimum of two to five years of post-graduate conservation experience within a museum or equivalent institutional context. · Familiarity with modern and contemporary artists' materials and practices, with an emphasis on installation art. · Willingness to research and explore a wide range of materials, techniques, and technologies. · Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across teams and disciplines. · Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. · Flexible and adaptable to shifting priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. · Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: · Collaborate with colleagues at the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, in the preparation, documentation, installation, and stewardship of artworks across various media (including time-based media), large-scale installations, and commissions for the future Guggenheim Abu Dhabi museum. · Review and provide feedback on exhibition design concepts and schematic drawings. · Assess pre-acquisition condition reports produced by external contract conservators and advise on any preservation concerns, foreseeable obsolescence, and deliverables. · Work with artists, foundations or estates, and galleries to determine appropriate parameters for the exhibition and preservation of artworks. · Organize and create documentation within a collections management database. · Advise on best practices for artwork storage, transport, handling, and installation in coordination with Registration and Exhibition Management teams. · Provide support to DCT Abu Dhabi, as required, with the movement and installation of collection artworks. · Participate in meetings and planning sessions related to building preparation and inaugural program development. · Undertake periodic travel to New York and other project sites, as required, to support conservation activities and collaboration with Guggenheim teams. · Maintain regular liaison with the Senior Conservator, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project, and other Conservation Department staff at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York. COMPENSATION: $85-95K along with standard UAE Labor Law benefits. TO APPLY: LINKEDIN <https://www.linkedin.com/posts/blrworld_blrworld-simplybrilliantpeople-opportunity-activity-7408871259196854272-Z5xc?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&rcm=ACoAADFsTuUBmSzXrXrkN6JGJnAEMZq1GSVSDZE> INSTAGRAM <https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fp%2FDSkYiiKkyoL%2F%3Figsh%3DYXJwaWdidmw1aXky&data=05%7C02%7CJWarda%40GUGGENHEIM.ORG%7Ca0d0df9616ea453cc48508de4db89fb2%7C49890c78bdbc496ea01db8273974ea25%7C0%7C0%7C639033652500596566%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=stuZjz863H7tKqJk7i7hAGSft%2F5pOiipJuqfXEvHXqg%3D&reserved=0> FACEBOOK <https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fm.facebook.com%2Fstory.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid0F9RCYWnZatAWGyQhU5PH13cFxpj4bYnhVsdL3yedUvVuHS4hYgTM5VKYrj1CBZnkl%26id%3D100063575530951&data=05%7C02%7CJWarda%40GUGGENHEIM.ORG%7Ca0d0df9616ea453cc48508de4db89fb2%7C49890c78bdbc496ea01db8273974ea25%7C0%7C0%7C639033652500609954%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=3Aykx9%2B1nAcQZnd1V7vm7jRQiQLjBHFYd4YhR3yN%2FkE%3D&reserved=0> ------------------------------ Jeffrey Warda Senior Conservator, Paper and Photographs Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum New York NY [email protected] ------------------------------ You are subscribed to "Global Conservation Forum (ConsDistList)" as [email protected]. To change your subscriptions, go to http://community.culturalheritage.org/preferences?section=Subscriptions. To unsubscribe from this community discussion, go to https://community.culturalheritage.org/HigherLogic/eGroups/Unsubscribe.aspx?UserKey=d16eaa87-0f69-494b-9f2f-303dbc1222e1&sKey=fab9aa4f27a04c5d876e&GroupKey=757a8f16-505f-4323-8e74-e376757aa9f7.
