I think my career path has always been destined to go into the art and history branch. And because hands-on work is so much more fulfilling for me than desk type, restoration of historical objects - be it paintings, murals, furniture etc. - the idea of studying to be an art restorator/conservator was one I've been entertaining for a long time.
To even apply for a college course is an insane process. You might think they're vetting you for a course in medicine!
A 10-month internship in the field (usually unpaid) together with a detailed report. Then an application portfolio with 15 works, to be turned in digitally AND physically. And on top of that, you have to pass an array of short exams:
- Test in the field of art and cultural history (written, 45 minutes)
- Test in the field of natural sciences (written, 45 minutes)
- Test in the field of conservation of art and cultural assets (written, 45 minutes)
- Picture description (written, 45 minutes)
- colored drawing based on a model (practical, 120 minutes)
- Test of manual skill (practical, 120 minutes)
- Test of color integration ability (practical, 120 minutes)
- Final interview (oral, 20 minutes, weighting 4-fold)
Basically you'll need a degree before you're even considered a student there?? /hj
This is not to complain about the intesity of the application process. I understand that this is a highly sought after, difficult field of work, where one has to have an incredible amount of skill and expertise. Of course.
My problem lies here: the accessibility is almost out of reach for a mere mortal like me. Wealthy people can afford to do an internship somewhere for nearly a whole year - the rest of the population cannot. Not to mention the fact that this particular course of study spans 5 years, during which there is certainly little or no time for even a mini job. Also one would have to move to a fairly big city with a high rent.
This profession seems to be reserved for the privileged
Personally, I would need at least 6 months to:
study and practise for these exams
pack my life up and move (with the risk of failing the application process)
Getting accepted and finishing that degree would be a Dream Come True! But I'm not yet 100% sure of my chances or capabilities to succed. Bottom line: it's intimidating.
If you read all this, let me know if you've ever felt the same way about your own academic path and how you handled it. I'd appreciate it!
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