What is the difference between a CONSERVATOR and a RESTORER?
Many people are confused about the difference between an art conservator and a restorer. To the layperson there is seemingly no difference and the terms are used interchangeably. However, this is very much not the case and the gulf between “restoration” and “conservation” is rapidly widening. Art conservators are generally academically trained to at least the level of a Master’s degree (M.A.C. Masters of Art Conservation see FAQ on Where do I get conservation training?). They have training in the scientific, art historical and artistic aspects and requirements of works of art. Fine art conservation is relatively new (only the last 50-60 years, since WWII) whereas restoration has arguably existed since the beginning of the creation of art when artists restored their own or others’ works. Restorers tend to have been trained as artisans (often apprenticed to artists) or have learned by experience. This type of learning is a necessary but not sufficient condition to treat works of art in a
