Accredited freelance painting conservator
Siobhán Conyngham is a highly respected, accredited conservator with over forty years of experience, recognised for her expertise in the preservation of artworks across Ireland, the UK, and internationally. Her approach prioritises minimal intervention, ensuring all conservation work respects the artist’s original intent while safeguarding the artwork’s longevity.
A leader in the field, Siobhán provides expert guidance to museums, historic institutions, and private collectors. Her studio delivers conservation treatments to the highest museum standards, utilising reversible, conservation-grade materials. She undertakes large-scale projects, including collection surveys, loan reports, and virtual couriering, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and discretion.
Meticulous documentation underpins her practice, with comprehensive reports and photographic records accompanying all treatments. She collaborates with leading conservation scientists to advance best practices in the field.
Her distinguished portfolio includes work for The Tate Gallery, The National Trust, The Office of Public Works (Dublin Castle, Rathfarnham Castle, Kilkenny Castle), and Russborough House.
The studio provides comprehensive condition surveys for collections, exhibitions, loans, insurance and other purposes. Virtual couriering services are also available to ensure the safe and efficient handling of artworks.
Every painting undergoing conservation treatment begins with a thorough condition report derived from an initial viewing and a detailed studio examination, including technical analysis and further scientific testing if necessary. This foundational assessment informs the treatment options.
The treatment proposal will clearly outline each stage of the proposed conservation work, detailing the specific procedures involved and outlining options. It will also include an estimate of the time required to complete the treatment and an associated cost breakdown.
There is a strong emphasis on collaboration and working closely with clients to understand their needs and the specific challenges associated with their collections.
The conservation treatment prioritises ethical practices and minimal intervention.
An example of this is a method for mending tears, as outlined by Winfried Heiber, and used by this studio which focuses on repairing the tear with minimal intervention, and mending the canvas threads under magnification, thereby minimising the area needing treatment.
Using reversible materials of conservation grade ensures that any treatments can easily be reversed.
Comprehensive documentation of processes through text, photographs and videos clarifies the methodologies and decisions made throughout the project and can serve as a valuable resource for future conservators and researchers.
The studio is committed to sustainability, placing a strong emphasis on environmentally friendly materials and practices. Using sustainable resources is a priority. From sourcing recycled and biodegradable materials to implementing energy efficient processes our aim is to minimise our ecological footprint.
The studio is a member of Gallery Climate Coalition.
This is a detail of a Portrait of Lucy Brydges, by Sir Peter Lely ( 1618 - 1680 ), oils on canvas, 124 x 99 cm, at Rathfarnham Castle, https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/rathfarnham-castle/ during conservation treatment which included consolidation, surface cleaning, varnish removal, filling of losses with gesso, varnishing and retouching.
Siobhan has been our paintings conservator at Russborough over the last ten years. She came highly recommended by the National Gallery of Ireland, and it’s clear why. Her work is always thoughtful, precise, delivered on time, and to an incredible standard. We couldn’t recommend her more highly.
Pauline Swords
Head of Collections and Conservation, Russborough