Maison Dieu explores the science of object conservation as part of British Science Week

Explore the science of conservation at the Maison Dieu on Saturday, 19 March (10am-4pm)

How to conserve an oil painting

In the latest of a series of free-to-attend events, the Maison Dieu is exploring how scientific analysis can help date artefacts and reveal hidden stories as part of British Science Week (11-20 March 2022).

Drop into the Maison Dieu (Dover Town Hall) this Saturday 19 March (anytime between 10am to 4pm) to discover the science of paintings and object conservation in a creative day for all the family! 

Chat to conservators from Bainbridge Conservation to see at first hand the exciting work they are doing to clean and repair historic Maison Dieu paintings and furniture, including royal portraits and lion-headed chairs by Victorian designer William Burges. 

Have fun trying out conservation techniques such as gilding (using Dutch gold leaf) and surface cleaning a mocked-up painting, as well as creating your own stencilled design of colourful dragons, flowers and birds, inspired by William Burges’ historic paint scheme in the Connaught Hall and Mayor’s Parlour.

What would you put in Dover's Community Time Capsule?

You can also find out about Dover’s Community Time Capsule. Tell us what we should put inside to capture the story of life in Dover today, before it’s buried this September. How can we make sure the objects will last at least 100 years? 

Find out about the History Diggers archaeological dig outside the Maison Dieu Stone Hall this Easter… and sign up as a volunteer archaeologist.

Also including building tours, object talks and a chance to view some recently discovered artefacts in close-up detail.

Free tickets via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/how-to-clean-an-oil-painting-the-science-of-object-conservation-tickets-239254305067?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Notes to editors:

1. How to Conserve an Oil Painting has been developed in partnership with Bainbridge Conservation as part of the Reawakening the Maison Dieu National Heritage Lottery Funded project to regenerate this iconic heritage building.
2. The Community Time Capsule project is organised by The Friends of Dover Castle in partnership with Dover District Council, local heritage partners, schools and community groups.