Vincent Dion is a graduate of the Master of Art Conservation Program at Queen’s University (MAC 2016) with a specialization in the conservation of works on paper, photographic materials, and new media. He has completed curriculum internships at the Canadian Conservation Institute, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Art Gallery of Ontario as well as further professional development at the Getty Conservation Institute in Los Angeles, and at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington DC. From the conservation of fine art on paper to historical documents and maps, archives of photographs taken by monks, and assemblage artworks, Vincent has applied his knowledge to various projects in Europe, South-East Asia, and most recently back in Canada. He enjoys problem-solving and working in collaboration with specialists to find solutions that respect the material integrity and life of objects, as well as their intended use. In this episode we discuss Vincent’s transition into the private sector during the COVID pandemic, setting up his studio space, and his recent work with The Archives of the Anglican Diocese of Toronto. We also talk about the challenges of putting a value on one’s time and experience, the lack of diversity in terms of who has access to conservation services, and the impact of one’s mental health in relation to conservation work. 

For more information on CONSERVATION+CULTURE, please visit:

https://www.conservationplusculture.com/

For more information on the Archives of Anglican Diocese of Toronto, please visit:

https://www.toronto.anglican.ca/parish-administration/archives/?lang=en

Time Markers:

(02:05) Introduction

(02:45) Discovering conservation

(03:43) Undergraduate studies in Analytical Science

(06:25) Graduate studies at Queen’s University

(09:10) Continued development (Getty Institute and Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden)

(10:53) Contract and private studio work

(13:01) Transition to working in private practice

(14:57) Starting business in Toronto

(17:31) Real estate challenges in Toronto

(19:04) Creating CONSERVATION+CULTURE brand

(20:17) Importance of referrals

(22:21) Creating space for the business

(24:29) Intentional studio design

(26:15) Advantages of larger studio space

(27:05) Best business resources 

(28:32) Insurance

(32:35) Charging clients

(34:09) Future goals

(37:59) Profitability of business

(38:35) Work with Archives of the Anglican Diocese of Toronto

(44:28) Tips for conducting similar projects

(46:12) Emotional tax of private conservation work

(52:38) Lack of diversity in who has access to conservation services

(57:45) Values and ethics of CONSERVATION+CULTURE business

(58:34) Tips for emerging conservators

Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast belong solely to the speaker, and not necessarily to the speaker's employer, organization, committee, or other group or individual. No individual connected with this podcast, in any way whatsoever, can be responsible for your use of the information within this interview.