ENTRY: 

Into a career in restoration and conservation is gained through acquiring the appropriate training and qualifications.

CAREER LEVELS: 

The work of restoration is based on the apprenticeship pattern. New entrants into the profession initially work under the guidance of an experienced restorer, handling larger responsibilities as they grow in expertise. It takes many years of experience before a qualified restorer is able to handle a work of art on his own.

TRAINING

Professional training is mandatory in this field, as a damaged work could be ruined by an untrained person. Even after training, it is necessary to gain hands-on experience under an experienced guide.

Training Institutions

Some colleges and universities offer courses on the history of art. Graduates from these institutions usually learn on-the job, working as assistants to veteran restorers. The Institute of History of Art, Conservation and Museology at the National Museum in New Delhi has set up a faculty for conservation science which offers full-time courses in art restoration and conservation. This originally started out as a part-time, informal course at the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, but due to its popularity was expanded and shifted to the National Museum.

Selection

On the basis of an aptitude test. Approximately 10-12 students are admitted per batch.

Duration of Training

Master's degree: two years full-time PhD five years

Academic Programme

COURSE STRUCTURE AND CONTENT:

The curriculum includes among other topics lessons in organic and inorganic chemistry. Students are also taught the basic aspects of painting and the development of art techniques and are given
an insight into the various pigments used and how they react to the environment while their eye is trained to look for defects. It is mandatory for each student to treat two paintings under supervision, before specializing.

Specializations: 

Can be in oils, metals or frescoes.