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This module looks at collections management and condition surveys, and at the commissioning, planning and management of conservation projects.

Aims of the module:

It is easy for conservators to dream of an ideal world, where conservation `just happens¿ and they can spend as long as they like working on objects. But real life is not like that: decisions have to be made about which objects are most in need of conservation, and how the conservation work should be recorded. There are pressures imposed by the opening of exhibitions, by limited finance, by the views of the owner, or by the need to get on with the next job. Colleagues may not see things in the same light as you do: they may be more concerned with visitor numbers, with education or with presentation. All these pressures are part of the daily life of the conservator, and in this module we will look at ways in which pressures are handled and managed in a number of different situations.

This module presents a conservator's view of conservation management. It considers; collections management, prioritisation, risk assessment, information gathering, documentation, condition survey, project management, decision making, access, evaluation, etc.

The module will consider the ways in which conservation decisions are influenced by the priorities of the institutions in which conservation takes place. It will examine the different types of information on which decisions are based, both within the context of museums, historic properties and archaeological sites. It will consider some practical aspects of getting conservation 'done'. There will be visits during which students will meet museum professionals in the work place.

The module thus aims to provide a wide-ranging and challenging introduction to the principles and practice of conservation management and collections management. It is concerned primarily, but not exclusively, with museum and archaeological objects and collections, rather than structures and sites.

The module is a 15 credit course, and is one of the four core courses for the MA in the Principles of Conservation.

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