Teaching Paper Conservation at the Academy of Fine Arts of Rome
Since the academic year 2018-19, Federica Delia has been a professor of Paper Restoration at the Academy of Fine Arts of Rome. The course is part of the MA in Technology of Paper Materials.
The lessons aim to provide basic knowledge of paper conservation and restoration. They cover the study of the physical and chemical characteristics of paper and its interactions with the surrounding environment. The main treatments, suitable materials for restoration, and methods for mounting works on paper are illustrated.
Particular attention is given to the causes of degradation and the effects on supports and graphic media. The goal is to investigate the durability and permanence of materials used in contemporary artistic production. Throughout the course, theory and practice alternate, allowing students to acquire scientific knowledge that can be applied through hands-on experience and direct contact with the materials under examination.
By the end of the course, students will be able to critically observe paper and make informed choices about the raw materials to use in their own artistic production, considering the characteristics that ensure or compromise longevity over time. Visits to museums, libraries, archives, and restoration laboratories, as well as interactions with fellow conservators, enrich the educational experience by sharing different perspectives and experiences.
Course programme:
- theory of conservation
- brief history of paper and its making
- European and Oriental tradition, ancient and modern paper: different features in comparison
- paper cultures and itineraries, tools and raw materials
- paper artifacts (books, documents, prints, photographs, etc.)
- other writing supports (papyrus, parchment, leather, etc.)
- paper chemistry and technology
- paper deterioration
- preventive conservation
- housing and storage
- emergency management and preparedness
- conservation treatments
- solvents and adhesives
- paper for conservation
- conservation mounting for exhibition
- practical laboratory training
- visits to museum, archival or library collections and to paper conservation laboratories
The Conservation School of the Italian Ministry of Culture
Federica Delia has also taught restoration methods and techniques at the Istituto centrale per la patologia degli archivi e del libro (ICPAL). She was professor of paper conservation during the academic year 2021-22 and professor of parchment conservation during the academic year 2022-23.
The Institute’s School of Advanced Training offers a professional training program (PFP5) for the field of conservation of archival, library, paper, parchment, photographic, cinematographic, and digital artifacts. The course qualifies students for the profession of cultural heritage conservator.
