Icon is pleased to announce the official Call for Posters for Icon26, inviting submissions that explore the transformative power and potential of the conservation profession.
Icon26 will celebrate the work of professional conservator-restorers, focusing on the impact of the conservation profession - on itself, the wider heritage sector, and society as a whole. From small but meaningful improvements in practice to significant changes that reshape how conservation is understood and valued
We invite conservators from all specialisms to submit poster proposals for a conference designed to spark broad and inclusive dialogue. Whether your work has local, institutional, or global impact, we want to hear your stories of influence, collaboration, and celebration.
Our aim is to ensure the conference reflects the most pressing issues facing the sector today. We strongly encourage submissions from all conservators, including early career professionals and students. Your perspectives are essential to shaping a vibrant, representative programme.
What We Are Looking For
Posters can be on any topic, ranging from technical treatments and preventive approaches to conservation science, sustainability, collections care, heritage skills, community collaboration, workforce development, and innovative models of practice.
We welcome submissions that explore new methods, share lessons learned, highlight resource-aware solutions, or open up fresh perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s conservation and heritage professionals.
Submissions will be scored based on:
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New Knowledge and Innovation
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Presents original insights, methods, or approaches.
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Academic Rigour
- Demonstrates sound research, clear reasoning, and appropriate evidence.
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Meaningful Outcomes
- Shows clear, relevant applications or benefits for practice or research.
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Relevance to Conference Themes
- Directly aligns with and contributes to the core themes of the conference.
Please note that proposals perceived as commercial in nature, including those that promote or sell specific products or services, will not be accepted.
We don’t require full posters at this stage, but to guide your thinking, posters will be produced at A0 size and should aim for an approximate 50:50 balance of text and images. This format encourages clear, visually engaging communication, allowing you to distil key messages, showcase practical examples, and highlight the most compelling aspects of your work.
Submission Instructions, Deadlines, and Further Information
Submissions must be made on the submission template below.
Icon26 Call for Posters: Submission Template
The deadline for submissions is 2 February 2026 at 5pm. Individuals selected to present their posters at Icon26 will receive a £50 discount off the price of their conference ticket.
If you have any questions about your submission, please get in touch by email at [email protected].
We look forward to your submissions!