Head: o. Univ.-Prof.
Mag. art. Dr. phil. Gabriela Krist
The Institute of Conservation is an internationally
renowned center of competence regarding conservation-restoration matters, as well as regarding the preservation of art and
cultural assets. The four study programmes available specialise in the conservation-restoration of paintings, objects, textile,
and stone. In addition, there are options to specialise in the conservation of archaeological finds, or in the conservation
of modern and contemporary art.
Significant priorities of the conservation sciences central to the Institute are
the consideration of art technological and cultural historical viewpoints, the application of up-to-date work and research
methods, the development of preventive and long-term conservation strategies, the maintenance of collections and exhibitions,
the thoughtful handling of conservation materials, the inclusion of ethical criteria, plus providing training in a transdisciplinary-methodical
thinking process.
The diploma degree programme of Conservation is based on project
work and practical relevance. With the help of various praxis oriented projects – such as individual restorations, interventions
on monuments, and central engagement with collection‘s holdings – students are introduced methodically and step by step into
the subject of conservation-restoration; they acquire practical experience and gain conservation-scientific competence. Engaging
with world cultural heritage is ensured through the UNESCO Chair on Conservation and Preservation of Tangible Cultural
Heritage. It is both framework and prerequisite for the multitude of international work and research projects that
teachers are involved in together with their students and graduates.
The Joint Master Programme of Cultural
Heritage Conservation and Management with the Silpakorn University International College in Thailand offers graduates
of Conservation-Restoration the opportunity, effective from 2020, to enhance their skills and broaden their knowledge base.
This programme pursues an innovative transcultural and interdisciplinary approach. The focus is on project management, research,
and teaching at an international level as well as the preservation of cultural assets in the European and the Asian region.