Evan Warren Hardwick

(they/them)

Summary

I became interested in conservation as it integrates hands-on experience, science, problem-solving, and social-historical research. Specifically, I’m interested in the fact conservation has an ethos preserving and looking after heritage objects for the future and that by conserving an object it makes me a part of its history. 

Career Aspirations

Going forward I’m looking into doing a further master’s in conservation, to open up a wider range of job opportunities within the industry. 

I would like to get a job in conservation, preferably doing bench work or preventative work. I would currently be looking into doing museum/heritage site work rather than independent work to have a more structured work environment. 

Other Projects

During my second year, I participated in a study abroad program in Finland. The course in Finland was more restoration than conservation-focused, which gave me a different lens through which conservation could be viewed. The course also covered wood and metalworking which gave me an insight into how some objects may have been originally made. 

During university holidays I have been volunteering. I have volunteered with the National Emergency Services Museum where I did basic object cleaning, and I was also in charge of environmental monitoring and helped design exhibitions. I have also volunteered with Belton Hall with the National Trust. Where I worked with the collections team doing day and monthly cleaning of rooms and helped with environmental and pest monitoring. These volunteering opportunities gave me more preventative experience and hands-on experience with collections management. 

Personal Reflection

Some of the skills I have learned so far include bench skills (particularly with mechanical objects), preventative knowledge, as well as communication and teamwork.  

I want to further develop my bench skills and try and explore working with different materials. 

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Exhibition Objects

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