The London School of Picture and Frame Restoration has for almost twenty years been one of the top institutions in the United Kingdom, training conservators to restore paintings on canvas and on wood support as well as restoring frames. The College Principal, Caterina Goodhart, trained in Florence (Italy) before moving to the UK, has more than thirty years’ experience.
On a trip to Goa in early 2015 she was moved by the artworks in the churches that she decided to return and to share her knowledge and experience, in order that a new generation of conservators can grow and develop in Goa. And she proposed to begin her work with the Portrait Gallery of the Archbishops of Goa, which is in need of restoration, as some of the portraits date back to the 16th century. Supported by the Archbishop of Goa and by the Museum of Christian Art, Old Goa, this project will initially run for five weeks, at Archbishop’s House, Altinho, Panjim, beginning on the 15th of January, 2016. During this time, would-be conservators will receive an introduction to conservation equivalent to a first year diploma, learn the basic principles of cleaning, patching, relining, colour matching and varnishing, and do practical work on actual paintings and frames, with close tuition. The course is aimed chiefly at men or women of all ages who are interested in the possibility of starting a new career in the field and thus ensure a legacy in conservation skills in Goa. Spaces are limited to not more than 8 students. No prior skills are required and there are no teaching fees. However, if the students, at the end of the course, are found to be eligible for a City & Guilds of London Institute qualification and certificate, fees will apply. Interested individuals may inquire at dcscm...@gmail.com or call telephone numbers 2433618 or 9822181790. Restorers and conservators in Goa are also welcome to make contact with Ms. Goodhart at dcscm...@gmail.com or i...@pictureconservation.com
