Calling all keen conservationists – this is your chance to learn about the skills needed to conserve the bronze and granite that make up some of the artwork found within Helensburgh’s award-winning Outdoor Museum, in Colquhoun Square.
Two workshops are planned on 29 and 30 June where members of the public, interested in this type of conservation, can watch experts at work, ask them about their skills and techniques and try out some of the work themselves.
It’s been over a decade since the museum was first established, some of the artworks and engravings have been worn down by the weather, and conservation work is needed to make them more visible, protect them, and support the museum’s continued development.
Two teams of highly skilled conservators have been drafted in to help; Graciela Ainsworth Sculpture Conservation and ZM Architecture.
On 29 June, from 10am – 1pm, the first session will focus on the beautiful bronze artwork in museum. The experts will take participants on a journey of how they of clean, treat, wax and polish the bronze to make sure it looks its best.
Local historian Stewart Noble will also give a short talk on Helensburgh, the square’s history and some of the heritage represented in the museum. As this is an outdoor session, please wear appropriate clothing for the weather and bring waterproofs and sunscreen. There are eight spaces available so please book early to avoid disappointment: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1991197529412?aff=oddtdtcreator
On 30 June, from 1-3.30pm, the second session focuses on the granite plinths which support the exhibits. These granite plinths need some conservation work to bring them back to life. Follow the experts as they clean and polish the granite to highlight the engravings once again and have a go yourself. Once again, Stuart Noble will lead a short history talk, and spaces can be booked through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1991196651787?aff=oddtdtcreator
Councillor Math Campbell Sturgess, Policy Lead for Business Development, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to work with experts at the very top of their field. It would be great for anyone with an interest in history or conservation, but particularly students or young people interested in careers in this area. I would urge people to book places quickly as they are limited.”
The project is funded by Helensburgh CARS, Historic Environment Scotland, Argyll and Bute Council and Helensburgh Outdoor Museum.
About the experts
Graciela Ainsworth Sculpture Conservation is an award-winning company in the field of conservation and restoration of public and privately-owned sculpture and statuary, museum artefacts, carved stonework and historic building fabric. With over 36 years’ experience and accredited by ICON, the company has an expert team of 9 trained conservators, artists and sculptors available for projects throughout the UK all of whom pride themselves in completing high quality conservation and restoration work.
ZM Architecture is an award-winning studio working across a range of creative sectors. The practice is recognised for excellence in conservation, sustainable retrofit, climate adaptation, refurbishment, and adaptive reuse. Its Conservation Team includes two RIAS-accredited Conservation Architects, one of whom is accredited at Advanced Level. With extensive experience in historic building repair throughout the west of Scotland, including its role as Framework Architect for the Helensburgh Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS), the practice is leading the conservation work for the Helensburgh Outdoor Museum
About the Outdoor Museum
The Outdoor Museum is an accessible museum that explores, celebrates and displays the rich and varied history of Helensburgh and the surrounding area. It displays often untold stories revealed by local people that both residents and visitors can enjoy at their leisure.
The museum has 129 granite plinths, and 17 of them hold artefacts and artwork with engraved text on the stone.
