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Archaeological Conservation:

Specialized Techniques and Research for Wet Objects 

a new advanced professional development workshop to be held September 21–24, 2009

Wet archaeological materials present special challenges to the conservator. Improper treatment can result in irreparable damage. Although there has been considerable progress in the last four decades, there are still many practical and scientific aspects of the assessment and treatment of wet archaeological objects that are not well understood. CCI is actively involved in research and treatment development in this area.

This intensive, four‑day workshop will focus on the research, analysis, and treatment of wet organic materials, iron, and iron/wood composites. It will also include updates on current CCI research projects and a review of conservation procedures for baleen. 

This workshop will develop the participants’ abilities to:

  • assess the physical and chemical aspects of wood and wood deterioration
  • judge the effectiveness of wood treatments
  • understand the use of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and PEGcon software
  • review other wood treatments
  • evaluate the condition of untanned and semi‑tanned skin and assess treatments
  • use several methods to dry wet organic materials
  • understand iron corrosion and the special characteristics of iron/wood composites
  • monitor chloride levels of treatment solutions for iron
  • apply the techniques of scientific analysis to archaeological materials
Format

The workshop will combine lectures, hands‑on exercises, lab tours, and demonstrations.

When

Monday September 21 to Thursday September 24, 2009.

Where

Canadian Conservation Institute, Ottawa.

Target Audience

Participants should have practical experience in the conservation of wet archaeological materials. Conservation students and archaeologists with a special interest in the area are welcome.

Enrollment

Minimum 12; maximum 20.

Facilitators

Conservation scientists and conservators from CCI.

Language

English

Cost

(includes coffee and lunches as well as a workshop manual)

Early bird (prior to August 10, 2009):
CAN$700 (includes GST) for Canadian participants; CAN$875 for all others

Regular (on or after August 10, 2009):
CAN$800 (includes GST) for Canadian participants; CAN$1000 for all others

Registration Procedure

If you are interested in attending this workshop, please fill out the online registration form and submit it on or before August 20, 2009. Early registration is advised.

Participants will be selected on the basis of order of receipt of registration. Should the maximum number of registrants be exceeded, a waiting list will be established.

Payment

Payment is due upon registration, and must be provided in Canadian funds by cheque or money order (made payable to the Receiver General of Canada) or credit card (American Express, MasterCard, or VISA).

Refunds

Participants who wish to withdraw from the workshop must submit their request in writing. Refunds will be issued according to the following schedule:

  • a full refund less a $25 administrative fee for requests received at least 21 days prior to the start of the workshop
  • a full refund less a $50 administrative fee for requests received between 20 and 7 days prior to the start of the workshop
  • no refund for requests received less than 7 days prior to the start of the workshop

Exceptions to this refund policy may be made in the event of insurmountable difficulties in attending the workshop.

Cancellation

CCI reserves the right to cancel this workshop if the minimum enrollment requirement is not met 30 days prior to the event. In such cases, CCI will refund the full registration fee, but will not be responsible for any transportation, housing, loss of income, or other costs that may have been incurred by the participants.

Additional Information

If you have questions or require additional information, please contact:
Julie Stevenson
Learning and Development Officer
Canadian Conservation Institute
1030 Innes Road
Ottawa ON  K1A 0M5
Canada
Tel.: 613-998-3721 ext. 114 or 1-866-998-3721 ext. 114
Fax: 613-998-4721
E-mail: julie.stevenson@pch.gc.ca