The manifesto discusses the evolving role of Conservators-restorers in museums, emphasising their importance in heritage conservation and the need for recognition and clear professional profiles. It highlights the lack of acknowledgment for Conservators-restorers’ contributions to museum preservation and calls for a review of competences and guidelines to reflect their significance. The text stresses the multidisciplinary skills and competences of Conservators-restorers, advocating for their active involvement in preventive conservation plans, conservation interventions, exhibitions, and content production within museums.
Furthermore, it addresses the paradigm shift in society’s relationship with cultural heritage, emphasising the role of museums in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. The document underscores the relevance of museums, especially during the COVID-19 crisis, in providing insights into past challenges and societal responses. It suggests that Conservators-restorers should play a more crucial role in museums, contributing to knowledge, narrative capacity, and engagement with cultural heritage.
The Professional Association of Conservators-restorers of Portugal (ARP) proposes specific responsibilities for Conservators-restorers in museums, such as drafting preventive conservation plans, coordinating conservation interventions, and actively participating in various museum processes. It also outlines the educational requirements and professional skills needed for Conservators-restorers, as per European guidelines, to enhance their capacity to engage with cultural heritage effectively.
In conclusion, the document advocates for a reevaluation of the role of Conservators-restorers in museums, emphasising their essential contributions to heritage preservation and the need for their integration into museum staff permanently. It calls for a shift towards recognizing Conservators-restorers as indispensable professionals in the cultural heritage sector.
