AIC's 43rd Annual Meeting

In a 20-year collaboration the authors and René de la Rie (formerly Head of Scientific Research at the National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC) have been sharing information and techniques about the testing and uses of new low molecular weight resins for varnishing and retouching. Dr. de la Rie is invited to share his research all over the world and he realized many years ago that conservators were more likely to use new products if they were given a few days of discussion and hands-on experimentation with new materials. The workshops have been a fruitful collaboration and opportunity for learning and sharing in ten countries and three continents. The presentation will be an overview of the workshop curriculum and the difference it has made in our profession as the resins and solvents we use have become available or disappear through changes in manufacturing.