Quinn, a white person in their early 20s with short brown hair and glasses. They are smiling softly and glancing to the right and wearing a plaid shirt. The photo is in black and white.

Quinn deMestre

(they/them)

Summary

I chose conservation as I originally had an interest in bookbinding and leather carving. As the Covid-19 pandemic began, I withdrew from my previous university course after deciding that it wasn’t putting me on the right path. While looking for new options, I found the conservation course here at Lincoln. Although there were a few more specialist options elsewhere, I quickly chose Lincoln as it could give me a wider range of opportunities to learn about different materials and skills. 

Paper conservation is still something that interests me, but throughout the three years, including a placement at Nottinghamshire Archives, I’ve found that I value having a more varied workload that gives me the chance to explore the multiple facets of cultural heritage.

A profile view of Quinn retouching the picture on the puzzle using coloured pencils. Around them are tools and puzzle pieces that haven't yet been treated.

Career Aspirations

While conservation is something I enjoy a lot, I am currently more drawn towards accessibility and inclusion and making sure people have access to this career without disability, education, or finances being a significant barrier. As such, my current goal is to do a research masters in equality, diversity, and inclusion, possibly exploring ways to make education more accessible. 

Other Projects

Between second and third year, I participated in UROS (undergraduate research opportunity scheme) to research ways to stabilise epoxy resins as they are known to yellow with age, but are often used to repair porcelain ceramics due to other useful properties. I tested various levels of fumed silica as it has been used in other fields to reduce the impact of UV damage. Based on this experience, I wrote a reflective journal article, and I hope to write up the full results for publication over the summer. 

I have also been involved in the Student Equality Diversity and Inclusion Committee (SEDIC) and the Disability Network, including being the elected Disability Officer this year. This has involved raising awareness of issues facing disabled students, working with the university to provide support, and running events and campaigns such as an UK Disability History Month exhibition. 

Exhibition Objects

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The doll wearing an ankle length off-white silk dress. The dress has brown staining and large tears in the centre. The dolls pink face is dirty with old adhesive where the wig was previously attached. The right foot is damaged.
Porcelain Doll
A wooden puzzle with random-cut interlocking pieces. It depicts Knole House, painted by Charles Essenhigh Corke. One piece is missing approximately two-thirds of the way across and two-thirds of the way down.
Academy Jigsaw Puzzle
A gilded 19th century frame against a black background. There is intricate floral detail along the inner edge and at the corners. It is surrounded by a patterend border.
19th Century Picture Portrait Frame