ICCROM: International Course on Conservation of Japanese Paper

The International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) and the Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties are organising an international course on conservation of Japanese paper. It will take place in Tokyo between 28 August and 15 September 2017. Japanese paper is internationally recognised as a superior conservation material. However, outside of Japan, it is difficult to systematically gain holistic knowledge and experience of Japanese paper and Japanese traditional technique. Therefore, the course aims to offer a better understanding of a tradition of conservation in Japan to participants from overseas. It additionally aims to build bridges between Japanese and Western paper conservation and to apply Japanese conservation approaches, materials and techniques to non-Japanese cultural heritage as well. The International Course on Conservation of Japanese Paper is an intensive programme combining theory and practice, through lectures, practical workshops in Tokyo and a study tour to visit traditional paper-making masters and mounting studios. The course is open to 10 conservators-restorers, curators, keepers and other professionals actively involved in the preservation of and access to cultural heritage. At least three years of working experience is required. Preference will be given to candidates also involved in training activities, or who are heads of conservation teams. Among the lecturers and trainers involved in the course are art historians, conservation scientists, traditional paper-mounting and conservation specialists from leading institutions in Japan. The organisers of the course will cover the costs of round-trip travel from the participant’s country of origin, domestic trip in Japan, accommodation and daily expenses during the course. The course fee needs to be covered by participants or their institutions. When applying to take part in the course, candidates are requested to provide a 300-word statement describing the relevance of the course to their own working reality. Applications should be sent by 10 March 2017. For additional information about the International Course on Conservation of Japanese Paper, please visit http://www.iccrom.org/international-course-on-conservation-of-japanese-paper/