SPOTLIGHT
Where did you study? Where do you work?
I studied at Camberwell c.2003 – first the postgraduate diploma course and then the MA in books. I still forget that it doesn’t exist anymore! I have worked at the British Library for 20 years – not something I set out to do, but here I still am. I started as a book conservator and now lead one of our conservation teams, which is very rewarding. I feel lucky to have had the best of both worlds – an academic degree and invaluable training from our binders when we were still based in the British Museum Bindery.
Bone or Teflon? Why?
Teflon these days – it never snags… is that a betrayal?!
Apron or white lab coat?
Apron, definitely.
The gloves: on or off?
Off.
SOFT FOCUS
We’re just warming up! What are you working on right now?
A scroll from the Dunhuang Collection. It was one of thousands found in Cave 17 in the Mogao Caves, carved into the mountains. Very humbling to be part of its history. You can find more information on this here.
Images courtesy of The British Library
When you tell people what you do for a living, they……….. ?
…are always fascinated. Some people want to talk about it for hours and others have no idea what to say.
If you could invent one tool for conservation, what would it do?
Treat iron gall ink corrosion locally. Iron gall inks present such challenges for decision-making.
What conservation technique or treatment are you constantly impressed with? And why?
Knowledge of historic binding techniques and the depth of material knowledge of bookbinders. Such an art. I also wish I had done A-level Chemistry. There wasn’t much career advice for teens in the 1990’s.
What’s the most depressing thing about the conservation profession? What changes would you like to see?
Salaries. I would love to see us more aligned with the architectural profession and equally respected for our specialised education, training and skills.
PATIO LANTERNS
Who are your role models or mentors? Who or what inspires you?
My colleagues who did bookbinding apprenticeships back in the 70s, 80s – they are almost all retired now, and I hope I can pass on some of their gems. Also head teachers and school leaders. I am a chair of governors for my local school, and these people are absolute heroes.
How do you preserve/conserve yourself? What keeps you going?
My children are my heart. They keep me going but are also adding grey hairs!
If not conservation/preservation, what would you be doing right now?
I think I’d be a florist. Apart from the cold early mornings, I think I would love it.
If you could invite anyone round for dinner, who would it be? What’s on the menu?
I would love to chat with Nigel Slater – ideally, he would cook! I love his reflections on the seasons, food and the humble moments and experiences he has had travelling the world.
LIGHTS OUT………..Z Z ZZZ
What music rocks you to sleep?
Oh gosh – as near to silence as possible for sleep, please!
What’s your secret hobby?
It’s not a secret – I have made some pretty awesome birthday cakes over the years!
What’s your favourite book?
Watership Down. I have read it many times.
Desert island survivor: what conservation tool would you take with you? Why?
My lifting knife made from a small hacksaw blade. I am very protective over this tool and would be bereft without it!
Thanks for sticking with us to the end! Last question: if you could give just one piece of advice to a new conservator, what would it be?
Even though it’s likely to happen, don’t get bogged down in the politics. We have a job that is as aesthetically beautiful as it is fascinating, and it is a privilege to be part of the history of our and other people’s heritage – enjoy it and keep everything in perspective.
The Book & Paper Gathering 