Visit the Stained Glass Conservation & Heritage Management - MA page on the University of York website for more details!
What's your background?
"I came from a background in Fine Art, and after completing a BTEC Diploma in Foundation Art and Design, was ready to study a more academic approach to the subject. I graduated from York with a BA (Hons) in History of Art, a degree that I really enjoyed. During this course I discovered a real passion for stained glass. I had a bit of a light bulb moment after visiting Bedern Studio and seeing the work of York Glaziers Trust in action and from that day I knew that stained glass conservation was the path I wanted to follow."
Why York?
York has such a wealth of stained glass, and the lecturers at the University are leading experts on its history and conservation. The University is so welcoming, and after having spent three years studying within the department as an Undergraduate, I was very happy with the approach to teaching and the facilities."
What’s the support like from staff and the department?
"I have found everyone to be really supportive. It is so rewarding to be part of a department where the teachers know their students well, and where you are able to approach them for guidance. Essay feedback is really constructive, and the marking is very fair. There is a lot of scope for research, and the tutors are very generous with their knowledge and are brilliant at offering advice and assistance."
Has the department supported you in career planning?
"One of the most fantastic things about the MA is that for four months at the end of the first year of study, each student goes on a practical placement to a conservation studio. This really is an exceptional experience, and provides a solid 16-weeks of hands-on work within a real conservation studio. This not only provides a huge amount of practical training, but also cements all of the knowledge gained on the course so far. I went to York Glaziers Trust for my placement and worked on some incredible projects, including the Great East Window of York Minster, a new commission, and a 20th century Geoffrey Clarke panel for the Stained Glass Museum in Ely. Other students have been to studios in Belgium, Germany, and the United States, and everyone comes back to the second year of study with really relevant and varied knowledge, which is great to share."
