Francesca Herrick
Francesca Herrick is the module leader in Historical and Critical studies at the KLC School of Design.
Conservation of Textiles with Francesca Herrick and Rebecca Bissonnet
Ref: D1D42016
About this course
\u8203?\u8203?This study day aims to give expert insight into how to care for and preserve historic textiles. Textile Conservator Rebecca Bissonnet shares important conservation principles in the morning session, while Art Historian Francesca Herrick leads an insightful tour of key textiles in the V&A's collection in the afternoon.\u8203?
Course Description
Join textile conservator Rebecca Bissonnet for expert insights into how to care for and preserve historic textiles. Whether you are looking to incorporate historic textiles into an interior scheme, keep family heirlooms looking their best or simply curious about conservation processes, this day will be packed with useful advice. Rebecca will explain important conservation principles, before sharing case studies of her work carried out for the National Trust, Historic Royal Palaces and private clients. Learn about agents of decay and pest management to ensure your own treasured textiles are stored or displayed as safely as possible.
In the afternoon session, there will be an inspirational visit to the V&A Museum led by art historian Francesca Herrick, (students and tutors will be travelling together via Tube). We will explore historical factors that give textiles power and meaning. Highlights will include a stunning state bed, rare tapestries and exceptional embroideries. The course will end at the V&A museum, in South Kensington at 4:30pm.
Who should attend? Anyone interested in textiles, history and conservation
Topics covered:
- Caring for historic textiles
- Conservation case studies
- Agents of decay and pest management
- Historic textiles in an interior design context
- The social and cultural meanings of textiles
Course outcomes:
- Explore key conservation principles
- Consider practical advice, including how to do a patch support
- Evaluate conservation versus restoration approaches
- Develop your knowledge of the main types of historic textiles and their origins?
Course Materials
Included
On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials for the morning stitch task.
Available to buy
A good variety of art materials are available to buy at the Garden's Gatehouse Shop.
Timetable
10:30am - 4:30pm
General Information
Tutors
Rebecca Bissonnet
After completing an apprenticeship at the Royal School of Needlework, Rebecca went on to study a Master of Art in Textile Conservation, completing her MA in 2003. After graduating Rebecca worked on short term contracts and on a freelance basis for 11 years, working on a variety of objects from 1960s TV puppet, ethnographic and ecclesiastical textile, to costume and Grayson Perry tapestries. Work took her all over the UK and out to the Middle East, and she was also part of the embroidery team who worked on the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress.
Courses of interest
Further study options
Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study.
Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.