4 Heritage / Culture / Library jobs in Helensburgh, Argyll And Bute

JOB PURPOSE  

The Mackintosh Illuminated Project comprises a major capital conservation project at the A Listed Hill House in Helensburgh and an ambitious programme to raise awareness and appreciation of the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his artist designer wife, Margaret MacDonald to an international audience. The Project therefore spans oversight of construction works, project management, skills training, conservation, historical research, interpretation, engagement, and community relations. This post will work closely with the Project Director to assist in ensuring that this complex and exciting initiative will be managed and delivered effectively and to the highest standards. 

This role is an integral part of the project team, which, working with the regional and property teams, will lead on the conservation, protection, monitoring, research, analysis, storage, decant, and re-instatement of the unique and varied collections and interiors at the Hill House. This includes, but is not limited to wall paintings, fixtures & fittings, carpets, upholstery, paintings, furniture, textiles, and stained glass.                                                                                       

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES 

Undertake and commission specialist conservators and contractors to accurately record, analyse, research, and assess the interiors, wall decoration and core collection items  

Develop, cost, and implement remedial treatment plans for the conservation of the collections and interiors, ensuring the use of appropriate conservation techniques and materials, and adherence to best practices and ethical standards. 

Working with the Regional Conservator and Curator, advise project team and contractors on best practice collections and interiors conservation, and ensure project work impacts are risk assessed and mitigated against. Oversee works on-site to ensure mitigations are effective and enact adaptations as required. 

Plan and cost for collections decant, storage, exhibition, and re-install as required throughout project works, bringing in specialist art handlers, as necessary. Ensure all collections stored within collection stores are appropriately packed, environments and location controls are maintained, and in-situ protection is installed for non-moveable interior fixtures and fittings. 

Plan and coordinate cleaning schedules to minimise effects of any dust and dirt ingress as a result of project works 

Maintain, research & develop collections and interior documentation, including condition assessments, treatment reports, object movement records and the Hill House Authenticity Report – a document which chronologically records the interventions conducted within the house throughout its history. 

Collaborate with the Regional Conservator, Surveyor and Project Team to assist with the development, planning, and installation of environmental systems throughout the property. 

Work closely with the Regional Conservator and Curator to determine and commission any re-decoration, design schemes and interpretation of the wall decorations using evidence from analysis, research and in consultation with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the most accurate and ethical approach is taken. 

Working with the relevant budget holders, purchase and manage conservation and packing supplies in consultation with the Regional Conservator. 

Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers and property staff to assist with the project works, as necessary.